exergonists

An exergonist refers to a chemical reaction that releases energy. This energy release is typically in the form of heat, light, or mechanical work. In biological systems, exergonic reactions are crucial for powering cellular processes. These reactions are characterized by a negative change in Gibbs free energy (ΔG < 0), indicating that the reaction is spontaneous and proceeds without the continuous input of external energy.

Exergonic reactions can be contrasted with endergonic reactions, which require energy input to occur. Often, exergonic reactions are coupled with endergonic reactions. This coupling allows the energy released from the exergonic process to drive the endergonic process, making seemingly unfavorable reactions possible within a biological context. A common example of an exergonic reaction in biology is the hydrolysis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) into adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and inorganic phosphate, which releases energy that powers many cellular activities. Other examples include cellular respiration and the breakdown of food molecules.