Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

3. Energy & Cell Processes

ATP

Anatomy & Physiology

3. Energy & Cell Processes

ATP

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3:41 minutes

Problem 8

Textbook Question

All the chemical reactions that occur in the human body are collectively referred to as
(a) Anabolism
(b) Catabolism
(c) Metabolism
(d) Homeostasis

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Begin by understanding the definitions of the terms provided in the options. Anabolism refers to the synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones, typically requiring energy. Catabolism refers to the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy.

Step 2: Recognize that metabolism is the overarching term that encompasses both anabolism and catabolism. It refers to all chemical reactions occurring in the body to maintain life.

Step 3: Understand that homeostasis is a separate concept, referring to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. It is not directly related to chemical reactions but rather to physiological balance.

Step 4: Analyze the question carefully. It asks for the term that collectively refers to all chemical reactions in the human body. Based on the definitions, metabolism is the correct term.

Step 5: Confirm your understanding by reviewing the relationship between metabolism, anabolism, and catabolism. Metabolism includes both energy-consuming (anabolic) and energy-releasing (catabolic) processes, making it the most comprehensive term for all chemical reactions in the body.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Metabolism

Metabolism encompasses all the chemical reactions that occur within the human body to maintain life. It includes two main processes: anabolism, which builds complex molecules from simpler ones, and catabolism, which breaks down complex molecules into simpler ones to release energy. Together, these processes enable growth, reproduction, and the maintenance of cellular functions.

Anabolism

Anabolism is a subset of metabolism that involves the synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones. This process requires energy, often derived from ATP, and is crucial for building cellular structures, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids. Anabolic reactions are essential for growth, repair, and the overall maintenance of body tissues.

Catabolism

Catabolism is the metabolic process that breaks down complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy in the process. This energy is often captured in the form of ATP, which can be used for various cellular activities. Catabolic reactions are vital for providing the energy necessary for bodily functions, including muscle contraction and thermoregulation.

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