[Campbell Biology P.198] Based on the discussion of equilibrium and metabolism, what would b... | Practice Question

Based on the discussion of equilibrium and metabolism, what would be the consequence for a living cell if its metabolic reactions reached a state of equilibrium?

  • A: The cell would be able to perform maximum work and function more efficiently due to energy balance.
  • B: The cell would die because systems at equilibrium cannot do work and have minimal free energy.
  • C: The cell would enter a state of dormancy, preserving energy for future spontaneous reactions.
  • D: The cell's reactions would become reversible, allowing it to switch between catabolic and anabolic pathways freely.

Explanation

The text explicitly states: 'Because systems at equilibrium are at a minimum of G and can do no work, a cell that has reached metabolic equilibrium is dead!' Living organisms continuously maintain a state far from equilibrium, using the energy from catabolic exergonic reactions to drive anabolic endergonic processes necessary for life.