DOMINO ENERGETICS
TASK: Build a domino track to represent the concepts of cellular energetics. You must
have multiple pathways represented by different domino colors. The product (i.e.
object) of one pathway must be the reactant of the next pathway. Your pathway must
make it all the way to the end- avoid loss of energy flow! You may include any
additional classroom object in your pathway. The longest lasting pathway (with the
fewest additional energy inputs (i.e. the track stops and you need to start it again)
wins!
Connections to the model
CONCEPTS OF ENERGETICS
First Law of Thermodynamics:
Energy can neither be created nor
destroyed- only converted from one
form into another.
Second Law of Thermodynamics:
As energy is converted, some is
converted to less useless forms like
heat. The total entropy of the system
increases over time.
Life requires a highly ordered system
and does not violate the second law of
thermodynamics—
a. Energy input must exceed energy
loss to maintain order and to power
cellular processes.
b. Cellular processes that release
energy may be coupled with cellular
processes that require energy.
c. Loss of order or energy flow results
in death.
Energy-related pathways in biological
systems are sequential to allow for a
more
controlled
and
efficient
transfer of energy. A product of a
reaction in a metabolic pathway is
generally the reactant for the
subsequent step in the pathway
Rachel Taylor. Millennium High School. New York, NY