Metabolism is
A) the consumption of energy only.
B) the release of energy only.
C) all conversions of matter and energy taking place in an organism.
D) the production of heat by chemical reactions.
E) the exchange of nutrients and waste products with the environment.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Metabolism involves all of the chemical reactions that occur within an organism, including the breakdown of molecules for energy, the synthesis of new molecules, and the elimination of waste products. It involves both the consumption and release of energy, as well as the exchange of nutrients and waste products with the environment. The production of heat is a byproduct of many metabolic reactions, but is not the defining characteristic of metabolism.

Metabolism Is