ADP, or adenosine diphosphate, is composed of one adenine molecule, a ribose sugar, and two phosphate groups.
ADP plays a crucial role in energy transfer within cells. It is formed when ATP (adenosine triphosphate) loses one phosphate group, releasing energy that the cell can use for various processes. Conversely, ADP can be converted back into ATP through the addition of a phosphate group, storing energy.
Here's a breakdown of the components:
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Adenine: A nitrogenous base.
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Ribose: A five-carbon sugar.
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Two Phosphate Groups: Chains of phosphate molecules linked together. The bonds between these phosphate groups contain a significant amount of energy.
In chemical terms, ADP has the formula C₁₀H₁₅N₅O₁₀P₂.
