The sum of all chemical reactions in cells is known as metabolism.
Metabolism encompasses all the biochemical processes that occur within a living organism, allowing it to grow, reproduce, maintain its structures, and respond to environmental changes. It can be broadly categorized into two main parts:
- Catabolism: This is the process of breaking down larger molecules into smaller ones, releasing energy that the cell can use.
- Anabolism: This is the synthesis of new molecules from smaller units, requiring energy input to build cellular components.
In essence, metabolism is crucial for the survival of cells, as it ensures they can harness energy from nutrients and utilize it for various functions, including growth and repair.