In biological systems, the breakdown of molecules to release energy is called what?

In biological systems, the breakdown of molecules to release energy is called what?

• A. Anabolism
• B. Catabolism
• C. Metabolism
• D. Endergonic Reactions

Answer: (B)

The breakdown of molecules to release energy is catabolism. In catabolic pathways, large molecules are broken into smaller ones, and the energy stored in chemical bonds is released and often captured to form ATP, which powers cellular activities. This contrasts with anabolism, which uses energy to build larger molecules from smaller ones. Metabolism is the overall set of all chemical reactions in a cell, including both catabolic and anabolic processes. Endergonic reactions describe steps that require energy input, so they are not the ones that release energy. Therefore, the breakdown of molecules to release energy is catabolism.

The breakdown of molecules to release energy is catabolism. In catabolic pathways, large molecules are broken into smaller ones, and the energy stored in chemical bonds is released and often captured to form ATP, which powers cellular activities. This contrasts with anabolism, which uses energy to build larger molecules from smaller ones. Metabolism is the overall set of all chemical reactions in a cell, including both catabolic and anabolic processes. Endergonic reactions describe steps that require energy input, so they are not the ones that release energy. Therefore, the breakdown of molecules to release energy is catabolism.