Misconceptions on ATP thermodynamic role in cellular processes

The occurrence and permanence of misconceptions have negative implications on the learning processes  since it impairs theconstruction of significant learning. Misconceptions correction is a complex task due to the difficulties intheir detection and high resistance to their removal. The mainobjective of the present work was to investigate misconceptions about the thermodynamic role of theATP in cellular processes. Tests were realized with high school (HS), undergraduate (UG) and graduate students involved in PhD programs (G). In this survey students answered a 15 item questionnaire dealing with the ATP role as the cellular energy source. The stability of such misconceptionswere verified: one result shows that 68% HS, 92% UG and 91% G students state that the energy from ATP hydrolysis is responsiblefor driving cellular processes. Overall results show that students carry misconceptions on basic thermodynamic concepts such as energy transfer and chemical reactions spontaneity. One source of the prevalence of the discussed misconceptions aretextbooks, where schemes, figures and even text early introducefalse concepts on the ATP role.