During metabolism, how is the energy released captured?

The energy released during metabolism is captured primarily by adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP serves as the main energy currency of the cell. When metabolic processes occur, such as the breakdown of nutrients, energy is released in the form of chemical energy. This energy is then used to form ATP molecules through the phosphorylation of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and inorganic phosphate.

ATP is highly efficient for storing and transferring energy within cells, allowing for various cellular processes such as muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and biochemical reactions to take place. When ATP is hydrolyzed to produce ADP and inorganic phosphate, it releases energy that can be utilized by the cell to perform work.

Other options, while related to metabolism, do not capture energy in the same direct way as ATP. Myoglobin is involved in oxygen storage and transport in muscle tissues, amino acids are building blocks of proteins, and carbohydrates serve primarily as energy sources. However, it is ATP that is specifically designed to store and transfer energy released during metabolic reactions, making it fundamental to energy metabolism.