Understanding Metabolism and Digestion

Which of the following best describes catabolism?

• The process of building complex molecules from simpler ones.

• The process of breaking down complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy.

• The process of maintaining a constant internal environment.

• The process of converting light energy into chemical energy.

Answer explanation

Catabolism refers to the process of breaking down complex molecules into simpler ones, which releases energy. This distinguishes it from anabolism, which is the building of complex molecules.

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What is the primary role of enzymes in the digestive system?

• To store energy for later use.

• To break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into smaller molecules.

• To transport nutrients throughout the body.

• To regulate body temperature.

Answer explanation

The primary role of enzymes in the digestive system is to break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into smaller molecules, facilitating nutrient absorption. This process is essential for digestion and overall metabolism.

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Explain how catabolic reactions contribute to energy production in cells.

• Catabolic reactions store energy in the form of ATP.

• Catabolic reactions release energy by breaking down complex molecules, which is then used to produce ATP.

• Catabolic reactions convert energy into heat, which is used by cells.

• Catabolic reactions do not contribute to energy production.

Answer explanation

Catabolic reactions break down complex molecules, releasing energy. This energy is harnessed to produce ATP, which powers various cellular processes, making this choice the correct explanation of their role in energy production.

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Which of the following is an example of an anabolic process?

• Digestion of food in the stomach.

• Synthesis of proteins from amino acids.

• Breakdown of glucose during cellular respiration.

• Conversion of ATP to ADP.

Answer explanation

An anabolic process builds larger molecules from smaller ones. The synthesis of proteins from amino acids is an example of this, as it involves linking amino acids together to form proteins, which is a constructive metabolic process.

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How does metabolism support growth and repair in living organisms?

• By breaking down nutrients to release energy for cellular activities.

• By building complex molecules necessary for cell structure and function.

• By maintaining a constant body temperature.

• By eliminating waste products from the body.

Answer explanation

Metabolism supports growth and repair by building complex molecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, which are essential for cell structure and function, enabling organisms to grow and heal effectively.

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What is the relationship between catabolism and anabolism in metabolism?

• Catabolism and anabolism are unrelated processes.

• Catabolism provides the energy and building blocks for anabolism.

• Anabolism provides the energy for catabolism.

• Both processes occur only during digestion.

Answer explanation

Catabolism breaks down molecules to release energy and provides the necessary building blocks for anabolism, which uses that energy to synthesize complex molecules. Thus, they are interconnected processes in metabolism.

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Which of the following molecules is a product of the catabolic breakdown of carbohydrates?

• Amino acids

• Fatty acids

• Glucose

• Nucleotides

Answer explanation

Glucose is a simple sugar and a primary product of carbohydrate catabolism. During this process, complex carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which can then be used for energy.

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Describe the role of metabolism in the body's response to environmental changes.

• Metabolism helps the body store excess nutrients for future use.

• Metabolism allows the body to adapt by providing energy and building materials for necessary changes.

• Metabolism prevents the body from responding to environmental changes.

• Metabolism only functions during periods of rest.

Answer explanation

Metabolism plays a crucial role in helping the body adapt to environmental changes by providing the necessary energy and building materials for physiological adjustments, making the correct choice essential.

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What happens to the energy released during catabolic reactions?

• It is lost as heat and cannot be used by the body.

• It is stored in the form of ATP for use in cellular processes.

• It is converted into light energy.

• It is used to build complex molecules directly.

Answer explanation

During catabolic reactions, energy is released and primarily stored in the form of ATP. This ATP is then utilized for various cellular processes, making it essential for the body's energy needs.

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How do catabolic and anabolic pathways interact in the context of energy balance?

• Catabolic pathways consume energy, while anabolic pathways release energy.

• Catabolic pathways release energy, which is then used by anabolic pathways to build complex molecules.

• Both pathways operate independently without interaction.

• Anabolic pathways break down molecules, while catabolic pathways build them.

Answer explanation

Catabolic pathways break down molecules and release energy, which is then harnessed by anabolic pathways to synthesize complex molecules, thus maintaining energy balance in the cell.

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