Question

What is the energy coin of a cell?
A. DNA
B. RNA
C. ATP
D. Minerals

Answer 1

The energy molecule of the cell is made up of ribose, adenine and phosphate groups. This molecule donates its phosphoryl groups to release energy. Upon hydrolysis, it releases a high Gibbs free energy that can be used to drive many important biochemical reactions in a metabolic pathway. The adenine and ribosyl groups allow attachment of various enzymes to it and regulate enzymatic activities.

Complete answer:
Option A DNA: DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid is a molecule made up of two nucleotide chains to form a double helix structure. It carries genetic instructions from one generation to another. It does not provide any energy to the cell.
Option A is incorrect.
Option B RNA: RNA or ribonucleic acid is an organic molecule that is essential for various biological roles including regulation and expression of genes. It does not provide any energy to the cell.
Option B is incorrect.
Option C ATP:ATP (Adenosine triphosphate is an organic molecule that provides energy to drive many biological processes in living cells like chemical synthesis, muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation etc. It is found in all known forms of life and is called the energy currency or coin of the cell.
Option C is correct.
Option D Minerals: A mineral is an inorganic compound required as an essential nutrient by all living organisms to function properly. Minerals in the human body are divided into major minerals and minor minerals. It is not called the energy coin of a cell.
Option D is incorrect.

Hence option C. ATP is the correct answer.

Note:
ATP serves as a substrate for kinases and enzymes during signal transduction process. It is also one of the four monomers needed for the synthesis of RNA. DNA replication and transcription processes also consume ATP. Cells secrete ATP molecules to communicate with other cells, a process called purinergic signalling. ATP also acts as a neurotransmitter in many parts of the nervous system.