Final answer:
Metabolism refers to the sum of all chemical reactions in an organism, including both catabolic and anabolic reactions, which together are essential for maintaining life.
Step-by-step explanation:
Metabolism is the term used to describe the sum of all chemical reactions that occur in an organism. It encompasses both catabolic reactions, which are involved in breaking down complex molecules into simpler ones and releasing energy, and anabolic reactions, which build complex molecules from simpler ones using energy.
For instance, the process of photosynthesis is an anabolic reaction where carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) are synthesized into glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) using sunlight energy. Conversely, cellular respiration is a catabolic process that breaks down glucose to release energy essential for cellular functions. Together, these reactions maintain life and enable organisms to grow, reproduce, and maintain their structures.