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This animated sequence shows the ATP synthase enzyme in operation.
The animation is based on an incredible series of scientific discoveries.
Only the colours show artistic licence.
ATP or adenosine triphosphate is the energy currency of the cell.
ATP is produced by a tiny molecular rotary motor,
rotating at up to seven thousand rpm.
These are so small that a hundred thousand would fit side by side in a millimetre.
A current of protons drive the motor,
unlike man-made electric motors which use electrons.
This portion of the enzyme is where
adenosine diphosphate is combined with a phosphate ion
in the presence of a catalyst
to produce ATP which is then released, making way for the next cycle.
A top view of the enzyme shows the sequential operation.
Almost every biochemical process in your body requires ATP.
Such a nano machine exhibits all the characteristics of superintelligent design.
ATP is vital for life,
and many of these motors were needed before the first living cell could exist—
—an evolutionary impossibility.