Metabolism is Defined as ________

Question

Metabolism is defined as ________.
A)the removal of wastes produced by chemical reactions
B)the breakdown of substances into simpler forms
C)the taking in of nutrients
D)all the chemical reactions occurring in an organism that support life

Accepted Answer

Metabolism encompasses all the chemical reactions that occur within an organism, including those involved in the breakdown of substances into simpler forms, the synthesis of complex molecules, and the production of energy. Metabolism also involves the removal of waste products produced by these reactions. Nutrient intake is a component of metabolism, but it does not encompass the entirety of the process. Therefore, option D is the best choice.