Courses
Courses for Kids
Free study material
Offline Centres
More
Store Icon
Store
seo-qna
SearchIcon
banner

Why are catabolic reactions always exergonic reactions?

Answer
VerifiedVerified
510.6k+ views
Hint: An exergonic reaction is a reaction that releases free energy.
This type of reaction releases energy rather than consuming it so it can occur spontaneously without being forced by outside factors.
This kind of reaction is observed in cellular respiration.

Complete answer: The reactions in which complex molecules are broken down to simpler components are known as catabolic reactions.
Catabolic reactions break down larger molecules, such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins from ingested food, into their constituent smaller parts. In the case of respiration, glucose is broken down to form carbon dioxide and water.
It also breaks down ATP, which releases the energy needed for metabolic processes in all cells throughout the body.
The process is an exergonic process in which the energy is released due to the breaking of the bonds of the larger complex molecules.

Thus, catabolic reactions are always exergonic reactions.

Note: Catabolic reactions are a type of metabolic reaction that takes place within a cell. Exothermic reactions are called catabolic reactions.
Anabolism is the process of building up more complex substances from simpler substances.
It is the opposite of catabolism and the reaction is endergonic.