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Multiple Choice
The term metabolism is best defined as ________.
A
the conversion of food into energy only during cellular respiration
B
the sum of all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism
C
the process of synthesizing macromolecules from monomers
D
the breakdown of glucose to produce ATP
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'metabolism'. Metabolism refers to all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism to maintain life. These reactions are broadly categorized into two types: catabolism (breaking down molecules to release energy) and anabolism (building up molecules using energy).
Step 2: Evaluate the first option: 'the conversion of food into energy only during cellular respiration'. While cellular respiration is a part of metabolism, it does not encompass all metabolic processes, such as anabolic reactions. Therefore, this option is too narrow.
Step 3: Evaluate the second option: 'the sum of all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism'. This definition aligns with the broad scope of metabolism, which includes both anabolic and catabolic reactions. It is comprehensive and accurate.
Step 4: Evaluate the third option: 'the process of synthesizing macromolecules from monomers'. This describes an anabolic process, which is a subset of metabolism, but it does not include catabolic processes. Thus, this option is incomplete.
Step 5: Evaluate the fourth option: 'the breakdown of glucose to produce ATP'. This describes a specific catabolic process (cellular respiration), which is part of metabolism but does not represent the entirety of metabolic processes. Therefore, this option is also too narrow.