Question

What is metabolism, and what is the difference between anabolism and catabolism?

Answer 1

Metabolism is of two types;
1) Anabolism;
It is a constructive metabolism in which large no of micromolecules (having low molecular mass) are combined to form a macromolecule (having high molecular mass). It is an endergonic reaction i.e energy is used or gain. Examples are photosynthesis and protein synthesis.
2) Catabolism;
It is a destructive metabolism in which a macromolecule is broken down to form many micromolecule. It is opposite to anabolism. It is an exergonic reaction i.e energy is released or loss. Example is respiration.