What does the hydrolysis of ADP to AMP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) yield in terms of energy?

The hydrolysis of ADP (adenosine diphosphate) to AMP (adenosine monophosphate) and inorganic phosphate (Pi) is a significant biochemical reaction that participates in energy metabolism. This reaction typically releases energy, which the cell harnesses to perform work.

When ADP is hydrolyzed to AMP and Pi, it releases approximately -36 kJ/mol of energy. This value represents the change in free energy (ΔG) for the reaction, indicating that the process is exergonic and can drive other cellular processes that require energy. The energy released during this hydrolysis is greater than that of ATP hydrolysis to ADP, illustrating the energetic significance of ADP hydrolysis in cellular metabolism.

This release of energy is fundamental to various biological functions, including muscle contraction, active transport, and biochemical synthesis, further underlining the importance of this reaction in the biochemistry of energy transfer within cells.