Essential Cell Biology, 4th Edition

Published by Garland Science
ISBN 10: 0815344546
ISBN 13: 978-0-81534-454-4

Chapter 3 - Energy, Catalysis, and Biosynthesis - Questions - Page 118: Question 3-15

Answer

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Work Step by Step

This discovery would be highly questionable and should be thoroughly examined before celebrating it. The conversion of 1 molecule of glucose into 57 molecules of ATP is inconsistent with the known energy yield from glucose oxidation. As established in previous questions, the maximum number of ATP molecules that can be generated from the complete oxidation of 1 mole of glucose is around 57 moles (approximately 57.17 moles). This means that under ideal conditions with 100% efficiency, the maximum number of ATP molecules would be around 57 for each glucose molecule. If a scientist claims that they have isolated mutant cells that can achieve 57 molecules of ATP from just one glucose molecule, it would imply an efficiency of 100%, which goes against the laws of thermodynamics. The conversion of glucose to ATP is not 100% efficient; some energy is always lost as heat during cellular respiration. Therefore, this claim would likely be inaccurate or misleading. It is essential to subject this discovery to rigorous testing and verification through peer review and experimentation to ensure its validity. Scientific claims should always be scrutinized and backed by evidence before being celebrated or accepted.
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