Endergonic reaction

Endergonic reaction is a type of chemical 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 characterized by a positive change in Gibbs free energy.

Overview

In an endergonic reaction, the products have more free energy than the reactants. Therefore, the change in free energy (ΔG) is positive. Endergonic reactions are considered to be non-spontaneous, meaning they do not occur on their own without the addition of energy.

Examples

A common example of an endergonic reaction is photosynthesis. In photosynthesis, plants absorb energy from sunlight and use it to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This process requires an input of energy, making it an endergonic reaction.

Endergonic vs Exergonic Reactions

Endergonic and exergonic reactions are essentially opposite processes. While endergonic reactions absorb energy and have a positive ΔG, exergonic reactions release energy and have a negative ΔG. In an exergonic reaction, the reactants have more free energy than the products.

Biological Significance

Endergonic reactions are crucial for many biological processes. They allow organisms to grow, maintain their structures, and respond to their environments. These reactions are often coupled with exergonic reactions in a process known as coupled reactions. This allows the energy released from exergonic reactions to drive endergonic reactions.

See Also

• Exergonic reaction
• Gibbs free energy
• Photosynthesis
• Coupled reactions

Endergonic reaction Resources
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