Metabolism is the full set of chemical reactions that occur in living cells in order to sustain life.

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

This true/false item hinges on the definition of metabolism in biology.
Option 1: True. Metabolism is defined as the total set of chemical reactions that occur within living cells, encompassing both the breakdown of molecules (catabolism) to release energy and the synthesis of new molecules (anabolism) to build cell components. These reactions collectively sustain life by providing energy and the molecular building blocks needed for growth, maintenance, and reproduction.
Option 2: False. If one claimed metabolism is not the full set of chemical reactions in cells, one would be denying the comprehensive scope of metabolic processes. In reality, metabolism includes all enzymatic transformations in a cell, not a subset, and is essential for maintaining cellular function. Therefore, labeling it as anything smaller or incomplete would be inaccurate.
Option 3: (Exploration of why this is not the best framing) Some misconceptions might suggest metabolism only involves energy production or only a subset of reactions. However, metabolism is not limited to energy generation alone; it also covers biosynthesis, regulation, and waste processing. Hence, the statement in Option 1 captures the complete concept.
Option 4: (Clarifying potential ambiguity) While metabolism can be discussed at different organizational levels (organism, tissue, cell, or pathway), the fundamental definition at the cellular level remains the same: it is the full suite of chemical reactions sustaining life. Misinterpretations typically arise from focusing on isolated pathways rather than the integrated network.

My LMS Subjects Quiz Topic 5: What is life?

Metabolism is the full set of chemical reactions that occur in living cells in order to sustain life.

View Explanation

Log in for full answers

Similar Questions

Due to the intensity of the workout, HIIT can elevate your metabolism for hours after exercise.

位置1的问题 Multiple Choice: Energy is acquired from a process called: a. Metabolismb. Skin turgorc. Fighting diseased. Clotting

Which one of the following best describes an amphibolic pathway? Hint: "Amphi" refers to "both sides."

Bacterial and archaeal species exhibit more diverse processes than any other group of organisms.

Which of the following is NOT true of a several day fast (no food)?

Which statements about tissue fuel use are correct? Select ALL that apply.

The term metabolism is best defined as ________.

True or False: Metabolism is a controlled set of biochemical reactions that occur in living organisms in order to maintain life.

More Practical Tools for Students Powered by AI Study Helper

Homework AI Solver

Stylized AI Paper Writer

Plagiarism Checker Assistant

Citation AI Academic Writing Tool

In-Class Translation Assistant

AI Note Generator

AI Quiz Answers

Past Exam Questions from University Test Bank

Smart Practice Assistant

Adaptive Practice

Making Your Study Simpler