Which molecule functions as a universal energy carrier used to do cellular work?

• A. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)
• B. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)
• C. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
• D. Glucose

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of a universal energy carrier. In cellular biology, a universal energy carrier is a molecule that stores and transfers energy to power various cellular processes, such as muscle contraction, active transport, and chemical reactions.
2. Step 2: Review the function of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). ATP is a nucleotide that consists of an adenine base, a ribose sugar, and three phosphate groups. It is the primary energy currency of the cell, releasing energy when its terminal phosphate bond is broken.
3. Step 3: Compare ATP with other molecules listed in the problem. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) is an electron carrier involved in redox reactions, DNA is the genetic material, and glucose is a carbohydrate used for energy storage but not directly as a universal energy carrier.
4. Step 4: Recognize that ATP is unique in its ability to directly provide energy for cellular work. When ATP is hydrolyzed to ADP (Adenosine Diphosphate) and inorganic phosphate (Pi), energy is released to drive cellular processes.
5. Step 5: Conclude that ATP is the correct answer because it functions as the universal energy carrier used to do cellular work, unlike NADH, DNA, or glucose, which have different roles in the cell.