Metabolism Flashcards
What is metabolism?
Metabolism is the chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life.
True or False: Metabolism involves both catabolic and anabolic reactions.
True
What are catabolic reactions?
Catabolic reactions break down complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy in the process.
What are anabolic reactions?
Anabolic reactions build complex molecules from simpler ones, requiring energy.
What is the role of enzymes in metabolism?
Enzymes act as biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions within cells.
What is ATP and its role in metabolism?
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the energy currency of cells, providing energy for metabolic processes.
What is the primary source of energy for metabolism in most organisms?
Glucose
What is the process by which glucose is broken down to release energy?
Glycolysis
Where does glycolysis occur in the cell?
In the cytoplasm
What is the end product of glycolysis?
Pyruvate
What happens to pyruvate in aerobic respiration?
Pyruvate enters the mitochondria and is further broken down to produce ATP through the citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation.
What is the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain during aerobic respiration?
Oxygen
What is the purpose of fermentation in metabolism?
Fermentation allows for the regeneration of NAD+ in the absence of oxygen, enabling glycolysis to continue producing ATP.
What is the overall equation for aerobic respiration?
Glucose + Oxygen -> Carbon Dioxide + Water + ATP
What is the main difference between aerobic and anaerobic respiration?
Aerobic respiration requires oxygen and produces more ATP, while anaerobic respiration does not require oxygen and produces less ATP.
