Metabolism

Metabolism consists of a system of chemical reactions taking place in the cells of our bodies.

This lesson is a part of Onsego GED Prep.

Please wait...

1. First, green plants take in energy from the sunlight. The plants use this energy and chlorophyll (a molecule that gives plants the green color) to produce sugars from carbon dioxide and water. This process is what we call…

A. photosynthesis

B.breaking down nutrients

C.replication

D.nucleic acid creation

Question 1 of 2

2. After we've eaten food, molecules in our digestive system are breaking proteins down into amino acids; fats into fatty acids; and carbohydrates into simple sugars. What are these molecules called?

A. proteins

B.enzymes

C.ATP

D.Thyroxine

Question 2 of 2

 Loading...

 

Video Transcription

Metabolism is a term that might sound complex, but it’s all about how our bodies handle energy. Let’s break it down into simpler concepts.

Metabolism involves all the chemical reactions that happen in our body to keep us alive. These reactions help our body do two main things: break down food to get energy and use that energy to build and repair our body.

Two Parts of Metabolism: Catabolism and Anabolism

Catabolism: This is the part of metabolism where our body breaks down food, like a sandwich or an apple, into smaller pieces. This process releases energy. Think of it as breaking down a Lego structure into individual bricks. This energy is then used to power our muscles and keep our organs working.

Anabolism: This is the opposite. It’s where our body uses the energy we got from breaking down food to build new cells and repair tissues. It’s like using Lego bricks to build something new. This is crucial for growing, healing cuts and bruises, and even for activities like thinking.

Metabolism and Daily Life

Our metabolism is working all the time, even when we’re sleeping. It keeps our heart beating, our lungs breathing, and our brain thinking. When we eat, we’re giving our body the fuel it needs to keep these processes going.

Factors Affecting Metabolism

Several things can affect how fast or slow our metabolism works. These include:

Age: Younger people usually have a faster metabolism.

Muscle mass: More muscle means a faster metabolism.

Activity level: Being more active boosts metabolism.

Hormones: They play a big role in controlling metabolism.

Understanding metabolism helps us see why eating a balanced diet and staying active are important. It’s all about giving our body the right kind of fuel and using that fuel effectively.

Remember, every time you eat and move, you’re helping your metabolism do its job!

Last Updated on January 11, 2026.