Catabolism

Definition

Catabolism is a metabolic pathway that breaks down molecules into smaller units, releasing energy. It involves the degradation of complex molecules such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Catabolic reactions are exergonic, meaning they release energy.
2. The energy released during catabolism is often captured in the form of ATP.
3. Enzymes play a crucial role in facilitating catabolic reactions by lowering activation energy.
4. Catabolic processes include glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and the breakdown of fatty acids via beta-oxidation.
5. Waste products generated from catabolic activities include carbon dioxide, water, and ammonia.

Review Questions

• What type of reaction is catabolism: endergonic or exergonic?
• Why are enzymes important in catabolic pathways?
• Name one key process involved in catabolism.

Related terms

Anabolism:

Metabolic pathways that construct molecules from smaller units, consuming energy.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate):

The primary energy carrier in cells.

Glycolysis:

A series of reactions that extract energy from glucose by splitting it into two three-carbon molecules called pyruvates.