POPULATION GROWTH
Carbohydrates
Lipids
Proteins
Photosynthesis
Nucleic Acid
Photorespiration
Gibbs Free Energy
Enzymes
Fermentation
Aerobic Respiration
As populations grow, there is an increased demand for energy to support more humans, organisms, and other species. This higher demand for resources includes glucose, a primary fuel for aerobic respiration. More glucose means that more energy is needed in factories to produce resources and foods, through the use of fossil fuels and the release of CO2.
Nucleic acid impact population through their role in genetic diversity and adaptation. Research highlights how population structure, influenced by the geographic location and migration patterns, affect nucleotide diversity with different species. This is a result of variations of DNA sequences, encoded by the nucleic acid. These genetic modifications allow different species to adapt to certain environments and live a longer life.
One way Gibbs free energy is a result of population growth relates to the increased demand for energy and development of energy through industrial processes. As population increases, the demand for more energy leads to more chemical reactions being made, such as those involved in production of fuels and plastic. These reactions require significant energy input, characterized as endergonic reactions with the change of G is positive (non-spontaneous).
Photorespiration results from population growth due to increased atmospheric CO2 from activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. As CO2 levels rise, climate change becomes worse and the planet gets hotter. This causes the C3 plants to close their stomata, reducing the intake of CO2, which is what RUBISCO needs to bind to it to make more glucose, but rather binds with the excess oxygen inside the plant that the plant cannot let out because of its closed stomata.
One way enzymes are a result of population growth is through their crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity to meet the food demands of a growing global population. As population increases, there is a heightened need for efficient agricultural processes. Enzymes, acting as catalysts, are used to fasten biochemical reactions which enhances soil fertility and increasing the efficiency of fertilizers.
Cholesterol and triglycerides significantly impact public health by increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, a major cause of death globally. High levels of saturated lipids (single-bonded lipids) can lead to increased mortality rates, influencing and decreasing the rate of population growth.
Photosynthesis impacts population growth by enhancing ecosystem productivity, which supports food chain and biodiversity. Through light-dependent reactions, photosynthetic organisms convert sunlight into energy, used in the Calvin Cycle to produce glucose from CO2 and H2O. This process provides essential nutrients to higher trophic levels and releasing oxygen necessary for aerobic respiration for other organisms.
Fermentation is considered a result of population growth in situations of when the number of microorganisms in an area increases. They use up oxygen faster than it can be replaced. This lack of oxygen causes them to switch to fermentation to produce ATP. This shift allows cells to maintain energy production through glycolysis by recycling NADH to NAD+. As a result, these microorganisms grow in number, the more they need to ferment, leads to production of substances like ethanol or lactic acid.
One reason proteins affect population growth is through their significant role in human nutrition and health. Proteins are essential for muscle development, maintenance, and overall bodily functions, as each specific protein code for a singular function through the use of amino acids. In modern society, there is a shift towards higher protein diets which leads to improved health and longevity, especially in countries where there is a lack of proteins from plants and animals.
Carbohydrates serve as a primary and economical energy source, supporting larger population growth by providing the necessary energy through glucose, obtained from the digestion of complex carbs found in cereals, grains, legumes, and potatoes. Their widespread availability ensures that most people can access its essential energy to support their daily activities.