Milady Esthetics State Board Practice Test

Which phase of metabolism involves breaking down complex compounds into smaller ones?

1. Anabolism

2. Metabolism

3. Catabolism

4. Photosynthesis

The correct answer is: Catabolism

The phase of metabolism that is responsible for breaking down complex compounds into smaller ones is catabolism. This process includes a variety of biochemical reactions that ultimately lead to the degradation of biomolecules to produce energy. During catabolism, larger molecules such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins are broken down into their simpler components, like glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids. This not only releases energy stored in chemical bonds but also provides the necessary substrates for various physiological processes. Anabolism, on the other hand, focuses on the synthesis of larger, more complex molecules from smaller ones, utilizing energy in the process. Metabolism is a broader term that encompasses both anabolism and catabolism, serving as an umbrella for all biochemical processes in the body. Photosynthesis, while a vital biological process that converts light energy into chemical energy in plants, is not related to metabolism in the context of breaking down compounds in living organisms.