Metabolism and Related Concepts

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Metabolism

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The sum of all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism, involving the conversion of food into energy and the building of molecules for growth and repair.

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Catabolism

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The breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy. Examples include the breakdown of glucose during cellular respiration.

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Anabolism

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The process of building complex molecules from simpler ones, requiring energy. Examples include protein synthesis and DNA replication.

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Enzyme

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Proteins that act as biological catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions in the body without being consumed in the process.

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Cellular Respiration

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The process by which cells convert nutrients (like glucose) into energy (ATP) in the presence of oxygen, producing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

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ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

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The primary energy carrier in cells, used to power many cellular processes.

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Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

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The amount of energy expended by an organism at rest, to maintain essential bodily functions like breathing, circulation, and cell production.

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Metabolic Rate

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The rate at which an organism's body uses energy, which can be influenced by factors such as activity level, age, and environmental temperature.

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Homeostasis

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The process by which organisms maintain a stable internal environment, such as body temperature and blood glucose levels, despite external changes.

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Exothermic

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Reactions that release energy, often in the form of heat. Cellular respiration is an example.