Energy Metabolism: Catabolic & Anabolic Reactions

In summary, catabolic reactions are typically exergonic and anabolic reactions are typically endergonic, but there can be exceptions. Metabolic pathways occur in various parts of the cell, not just in the mitochondria.
  • #1
beocom6000yello
10
0
Is it safe to assume that catabolic reactions are always exergonic and anabolic reactions are always endergonic?

Also, I had a question on energy metabolism. Since the mitochondria is where energy is stored, does that mean that metabolic (energy) pathways only occur in the mitochondria? Or is there some other place in the cell that it can be done? I had this question:
Metabolic pathways ________________.

are often organized as a multi-step sequence of reactions
None of these.
occur only in mitochondria
only link smaller molecules together to create polymers
always break down large molecules into smaller ones

Would it be only occur in mitochondria?


Thanks!
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
beocom6000yello said:
Is it safe to assume that catabolic reactions are always exergonic and anabolic reactions are always endergonic?

No. Overall, catabolic pathways are exergonic and anabolic pathways are endergonic, but there can be endergonic steps in a catabolic pathway and exergonic steps in an anabolic pathway.

Also, I had a question on energy metabolism. Since the mitochondria is where energy is stored, does that mean that metabolic (energy) pathways only occur in the mitochondria? Or is there some other place in the cell that it can be done?

Energy is not stored in the mitochondria. Mitochondria is where many metabolic reactions occur, such as the Krebs cycle and the electron transport chain, which is responsible for much of the energy production in the cell, but the molecules that fuel these processes are usually stored elsewhere in the cell. While many important metabolic processes occur in the mitochondria, many metabolic processes occur outside of the mitochondria. For example, glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm.
 

1. What is energy metabolism?

Energy metabolism is the process by which our bodies convert food into energy that can be used for various bodily functions. It involves a series of chemical reactions that break down macromolecules such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into smaller molecules that can be used for energy.

2. What are catabolic reactions?

Catabolic reactions are a type of energy metabolism that involve breaking down larger molecules into smaller ones. This process releases energy that can be used for cellular functions. Examples of catabolic reactions include glycolysis, which breaks down glucose, and lipolysis, which breaks down fats.

3. What are anabolic reactions?

Anabolic reactions are the opposite of catabolic reactions. They involve building larger molecules from smaller ones and require energy input. Examples of anabolic reactions include protein synthesis, where amino acids are joined together to form proteins, and gluconeogenesis, which creates glucose from non-carbohydrate sources.

4. How do catabolic and anabolic reactions work together?

Catabolic and anabolic reactions are interconnected and work together in a process called metabolism. Catabolic reactions break down molecules to release energy, which is then used in anabolic reactions to build new molecules for growth and repair. Without catabolic reactions, there would be no energy for anabolic reactions to occur.

5. What factors affect energy metabolism?

Several factors can affect energy metabolism, including age, gender, body composition, and physical activity. Age and gender can influence the rate of metabolism, while body composition, specifically the proportion of muscle to fat, can affect the amount of energy needed for bodily functions. Physical activity also plays a significant role in energy metabolism, as regular exercise can increase the rate of metabolism and improve overall energy efficiency.

Similar threads

  • Biology and Medical
Replies
5
Views
955
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
8
Views
720
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
1
Views
814
Replies
6
Views
10K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
16
Views
5K
Back
Top