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Respiration & Energy (AQA A Level Biology): Revision Note

Exam code: 7402

Ruth Brindle

Written by: Ruth Brindle

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

Updated on

Respiration produces ATP

  • Respiration is a chemical process that occurs inside living cells; it releases energy from organic molecules

Balanced equation for aerobic respiration, IGCSE & GCSE Chemistry revision notes

  • During respiration the chemical energy stored in nutrient molecules, e.g. carbohydrates, is transferred to ATP

  • Energy from ATP is used in cellular processes such as:

    • active transport across membranes, e.g. via sodium-potassium pumps

    • DNA synthesis

    • protein synthesis

    • muscle contraction

Examiner Tips and Tricks

Remember that, according to the laws of thermodynamics, energy cannot be created or destroyed. Never write in an exam that energy is “created” or "produced" when talking about respiration; you should instead say that energy is transferred or released.

Note that it is acceptable to say that ATP is produced.

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    Author
    Reviewer
    Ruth Brindle

    Author: Ruth Brindle

    Expertise: Biology Content Creator

    Ruth graduated from Sheffield University with a degree in Biology and went on to teach Science in London whilst also completing an MA in innovation in Education. With 10 years of teaching experience across the 3 key science disciplines, Ruth decided to set up a tutoring business to support students in her local area. Ruth has worked with several exam boards and loves to use her experience to produce educational materials which make the mark schemes accessible to all students.

    Lára Marie McIvor

    Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

    Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

    Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.