The useful idea
- The useful idea
Metabolism (, from Greek: μεταβολή metabolē, "change") refers to the set of life-sustaining chemical reactions that occur within living organisms.
- How it works
The three main functions of metabolism are the conversion of energy in food into a usable form for cellular processes; the conversion of food to building blocks of macromolecules (biopolymers) such as
- Why it matters
proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and some carbohydrates; and the excretion of metabolic wastes.
Why this matters
Use Metabolism to ask clearer questions; personal health decisions still belong with a qualified professional.
Try this
Use Metabolism to ask clearer questions; personal health decisions still belong with a qualified professional.
Test your recall
Which idea belongs to the explanation of Metabolism?
- Why it matters
- How it works
- The useful idea — correct
Metabolism (, from Greek: μεταβολή metabolē, "change") refers to the set of life-sustaining chemical reactions that occur within living organisms.
General education only — not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.