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Chapter 20: Problem 27

How are living things able to respond immediately to energy-demanding situations?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Living organisms respond to energy-demanding situations by accelerating metabolic activities, particularly glycolysis, to produce ATP quicker. In multicellular organisms, hormones like adrenaline are released which trigger processes such as increase in glucose production and blood flow leading to an immediate increase in available energy.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Cellular Energy Demand

Energy-demanding situations for a cell can arise due to any intense activity or external stress. During these times, cells need to produce and use energy more quickly than under normal conditions. This response involves the activation of metabolic pathways that break down nutrient molecules, such as glucose, to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the main energy currency of the cell.
02

Role of ATP in Energy Production

ATP is the primary energy carrier in all living organisms. It is capable of storing and supplying the cell with needed energy. In energy-demanding situations, cells can break the bond in ATP to form ADP (Adenosine Diphosphate) and an inorganic phosphate. This process releases energy that the cell can use for various functions.
03

Process of Glycolysis

When there's an immediate need for energy, cells often resort to the process of glycolysis to generate ATP. This process, which takes place in the cytoplasm, involves the breakdown of glucose to pyruvate, yielding ATP and NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, which harbors potential energy that can be later used by the cell). This process doesn't require oxygen and is, therefore, crucial for organisms in conditions where oxygen supply might be limited.
04

Role of Hormones

In multicellular organisms, hormones play a vital role in responding to energy-demanding situations. Hormones like adrenaline, also known as the 'fight or flight' hormone, prepare the body for strenuous situations by stimulating glucose production, increasing heart rate and blood flow which results in immediate increase in the energy supply to muscles.

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