Here's why:
* Hydrolysis means "breaking down with water." In this case, a water molecule (H₂O) is used to break the bond between the phosphate groups in ATP.
* The water molecule provides a hydroxyl group (OH-) that attaches to one phosphate group, and a hydrogen ion (H+) that attaches to the remaining portion of the ATP molecule, forming ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi).
The reaction can be written as:
ATP + H₂O → ADP + Pi
This reaction is exergonic, meaning it releases energy. This energy is what cells use to perform various functions.