In the presence of water, does ATPase break down ATP to produce ADP and hydrogen?

The statement regarding ATPase breaking down ATP to produce ADP and hydrogen in the presence of water is indeed false. ATPase is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of ATP, resulting in the formation of ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi), rather than hydrogen. This reaction is vital for cellular energy transfer and is a fundamental process in many biological systems.

In the context of ATP breakdown, water acts as a reactant in the hydrolysis reaction, contributing to the process of energy release from ATP. The primary outcome is the conversion of ATP to ADP and Pi while releasing energy that can be utilized for various cellular functions.

Therefore, the assertion that hydrogen is produced during this process is inaccurate, as hydrogen does not play a role in the primary reaction catalyzed by ATPase. Thus, labeling the statement as false aligns accurately with the biochemical processes involved in ATP metabolism.