Questions: Which of the following refers to the term metabolism? A. all the reactions in a cell that build new molecules only B. all the reactions in a cell or organism C. all the reactions in a cell that decompose molecules only D. all the reactions in a cell that break down molecules only

Which of the following refers to the term metabolism?
A. all the reactions in a cell that build new molecules only
B. all the reactions in a cell or organism
C. all the reactions in a cell that decompose molecules only
D. all the reactions in a cell that break down molecules only

Transcript text: Which of the following refers to the term metabolism? A. all the reactions in a cell that build new molecules only B. all the reactions in a cell or organism C. all the reactions in a cell that decompose molecules only D. all the reactions in a cell that break down molecules only

Solution

The answer is B: all the reactions in a cell or organism.

Explanation for each option:

A. All the reactions in a cell that build new molecules only - This option refers specifically to anabolic reactions, which are a part of metabolism but do not encompass the entire process. Metabolism includes both building (anabolic) and breaking down (catabolic) processes.

B. All the reactions in a cell or organism - This is the correct definition of metabolism. Metabolism includes all chemical reactions that occur within a cell or organism, encompassing both anabolic and catabolic processes.

C. All the reactions in a cell that decompose molecules only - This option refers specifically to catabolic reactions, which are also a part of metabolism but do not represent the whole process.

D. All the reactions in a cell that break down molecules only - Similar to option C, this refers to catabolic reactions, which are only one aspect of metabolism.

In summary, metabolism includes all chemical reactions in a cell or organism, making option B the correct choice.

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