Endergonic

Endergonic is a term used in biochemistry to describe a reaction that absorbs energy from its surroundings. This is in contrast to an exergonic reaction, which releases energy. Endergonic reactions are not spontaneous and require an input of energy to proceed. They are often coupled with exergonic reactions to ensure that the overall process is energetically favorable.

Overview

In an endergonic reaction, the Gibbs free energy is positive, indicating that the reaction requires an input of energy to proceed. This energy can come from a variety of sources, such as light in the case of photosynthesis, or from the breakdown of high-energy molecules like ATP.

Endergonic reactions are crucial for many biological processes, including cell growth, DNA replication, and the synthesis of proteins and other biomolecules. They are also involved in the storage of energy, such as in the formation of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate.

Examples of Endergonic Reactions

One of the most well-known examples of an endergonic reaction is photosynthesis, where light energy is used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Another example is the synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate, which is driven by the energy released from the breakdown of glucose in the process of cellular respiration.

Endergonic vs Exergonic Reactions

While endergonic reactions require an input of energy and have a positive Gibbs free energy, exergonic reactions release energy and have a negative Gibbs free energy. In biological systems, these two types of reactions often occur together in a process known as coupled reactions. This allows the energy released from an exergonic reaction to drive an endergonic reaction, ensuring that the overall process is energetically favorable.

See Also

• Exergonic
• Gibbs free energy
• Photosynthesis
• Cellular respiration
• Coupled reactions

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