Specifically, the energy is stored in the high-energy phosphate bonds between the second and third phosphate groups. When these bonds are broken, energy is released, which can be used to power cellular processes.

Think of it like this:

* ATP is like a charged battery. The phosphate bonds are like the stored energy within the battery.

* Breaking a phosphate bond is like discharging the battery. This releases the energy to power cellular functions.

So, while the entire ATP molecule contains energy, the high-energy phosphate bonds are where the usable energy is stored and released.