No energy storage in chemical bonds

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Abstract
References to certain biological molecules as energy sources frequently lead to the mistaken idea that energy is released when bonds are broken in these molecules. The misconception is reinforced by the widespread use of the term ‘high-energy bond’. A group of university science majors were asked to give a molecular interpretation of the statement, ‘fats supply energy to the body’. Their responses clearly reflect the confusion of bond-energy with the energy associated with a chemical reaction. It is suggested that energy changes in biological processes should rest on the following ideas: In the interests of a sound understanding of energy transformations, the high-energy bond idea should be treated cautiously. The Nuffield A-level Chemistry treatment of ATP in intermediary metabolism has even entirely avoided the concept of a high-energy bond.

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