Which of the Following is the Most Accurate Definition of Metabolism

Question

Which of the following is the most accurate definition of metabolism for an organism?
A)all chemical reactions
B)all chemical reactions that break down larger molecules into smaller molecules
C)all chemical reactions that take small molecules and condense them into larger molecules
D)all chemical reactions that lead to the production of ATP
E)all chemical reactions that increase the potential energy of the organism

Accepted Answer

Metabolism refers to all the chemical reactions that take place in an organism. This includes both the breakdown of larger molecules into smaller ones (catabolism) and the building up of smaller molecules into larger ones (anabolism), as well as other metabolic processes such as energy production and storage. Therefore, option A is the most accurate definition of metabolism for an organism.