Metabolism

• What is meant by metabolism?

  The sum of all chemical reactions in a cell
• How does metabolism convert between different molecules?

  It involves various chemical reactions
• What is respiration in relation to metabolism?

  It is a chemical reaction releasing energy from glucose
• What is the role of enzymes in metabolism?

  They synthesize new molecules using energy
• What is the definition of metabolism?

  • The sum of all chemical reactions in a cell or body
• Why is glucose important in metabolism?

  It releases energy and serves as a starting point
• What does glucose convert into in plant cells to strengthen cell walls?

  Cellulose
• What is starch in relation to glucose in plant cells?

  It is a storage form of glucose
• How does glucose contribute to amino acid synthesis in plants?

  It reacts with nitrate ions to form amino acids
• What is glycogen in relation to glucose in humans and animals?

  It is a storage form of glucose
• What is formed when one molecule of glycerol reacts with three fatty acids?

  A lipid molecule
• Where are lipids found in the body?

  In the cell membrane
• What happens to excess proteins in humans?

  They are broken down into urea
• How is urea excreted from the body?

  By the kidneys
• What are the key reactions in metabolism involving glucose?

  • Glucose to cellulose (strengthens cell walls)
  • Glucose to starch (storage form)
  • Glucose with nitrate ions to amino acids (protein synthesis)
  • Glucose to glycogen (storage in animals)
• What should you remember to prepare for questions on metabolism?

  Details of lipid synthesis and reactions