4.2.3 Metabolism

• What 5 things does metabolism include?

  • Conversion of glucose molecules
  • Formation of lipid molecules
  • Amino acid + protein formation
  • Respiration reactions
  • To form urea for excretion
• What is the metabolism?

  The sum of all the reactions in a cell or the body.
• What is the importance of sugars in the breakdown and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids?

  It is the main substrate for the synthesis of carbohydrate molecules and the main product generated after carbohydrates are broken down.
• What is the importance of amino acids in the breakdown and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids?

  To build proteins and help aid protein absorption.
• What is the importance of fatty acids and glycerol in the breakdown and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids?

  They are the main substrates for the synthesis of lipid molecules and are easily processed products after lipid breakdown.