Exergonic

Exergonic is a term used in thermodynamics to describe a process that releases energy in the form of work. It is derived from the Greek words "exo", meaning "out", and "ergon", meaning "work". Exergonic reactions are characterized by a negative change in Gibbs free energy.

Overview

In an exergonic process, the energy needed to initiate the reaction is less than the energy released, resulting in a net release of energy. This is in contrast to an endergonic process, where the energy needed to initiate the reaction is greater than the energy released, resulting in a net absorption of energy.

Exergonic reactions are generally spontaneous, as they result in a decrease in the system's free energy. This is because the products of the reaction have less free energy than the reactants, which is a state of lower potential energy and thus more stable.

Examples

A common example of an exergonic reaction is the breakdown of glucose in cells, which releases energy that can be used to do work. This process, known as cellular respiration, is crucial for life.

Another example is the combustion of hydrocarbons, such as in a car engine. The hydrocarbons react with oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy in the process.

Implications in Biology

In biology, exergonic reactions are essential for the survival of organisms. They provide the energy needed for various biological processes, such as protein synthesis, muscle contraction, and nerve impulse transmission.

The energy released from exergonic reactions is often stored in adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which acts as a kind of energy currency in cells. The ATP can then be used to drive endergonic reactions, which require an input of energy.

See also

• Endergonic
• Gibbs free energy
• Thermodynamics
• Cellular respiration
• Adenosine triphosphate

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