Endergonic

/ˌɛndɚˈɡɑnɪk/ adjective

Definition

Describing a chemical reaction that requires energy input to proceed; the opposite of exergonic reactions.

Etymology

From Greek 'endo-' (within) + 'ergon' (work, energy) + '-ic' (relating to). The prefix suggests energy going 'into' the reaction, contrasting with 'exergonic' where energy is released 'out' of the reaction.

Kelly Says

Photosynthesis is the ultimate endergonic process—plants use sunlight to pump energy into making sugar from CO₂, storing the sun's energy in chemical bonds that animals then eat to release that stored power.

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