Energetics of Biological Reactions and ATP - MCAT Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems

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Question

Which of the following is true, assuming the reaction goes to completion?

I. There is an increase in , entropy

II.

III. At equilibrium,

IV. Oxygen is the reducing agent

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Answer

This question ties together the reaction for oxidation of glucose with several thermodynamic principles.

The first option, stating that there is an increase of entropy, is true. When balanced, we see that there is an increase in total number of molecules when the reaction completes; thus, there will be an increase in entropy.

The second option states that enthalpy, or , is less than than zero. This is also true, as it implies that this is an exothermic (or heat generating) reaction. The oxidation of glucose is how our bodies generate heat and keep homeostasis.

The third option, stating that Gibb's free energy is zero at equilibrium, is also true. Any equation will have at equilibrium.

The last option, stating that oxygen is the reducing agent, is false. Oxygen is actually the oxidizing agent and is itself reduced.

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