Question

1. reactions involving ligases are typically ________ reactions.

a) anabolic
b) catabolic
c) both anabolic and catabolic
d) neither anabolic nor catabolic
e) exergonic
answer: a
blooms taxonomy: comprehension
section: basic chemical reactions underlying metabolism
learning outcome: 5.4

Explanation:

Ligases are enzymes that catalyze the joining (ligation) of two molecules, often requiring energy (like ATP). Anabolic reactions build complex molecules from simpler ones, and ligase - mediated reactions (e.g., DNA ligation, forming bonds between molecules) are part of anabolic processes as they construct larger molecules. Catabolic reactions break down molecules, which is not what ligases do. Exergonic reactions release energy, but ligase reactions are usually endergonic (require energy) and anabolic. So reactions with ligases are typically anabolic.

Answer:

A. anabolic