Alberta Written Barber Practice Exam

Which process is vital for cell function and involves the conversion of food into energy?

1. Digestion

2. Metabolism

3. Fermentation

4. Filtration

The correct answer is: Metabolism

Metabolism is the crucial process that encompasses all biochemical reactions occurring within a cell that convert food into energy. This includes catabolic reactions, which break down molecules to release energy, and anabolic reactions, which utilize energy to construct components of cells such as proteins and nucleic acids. In the context of cellular function, metabolism is essential for maintaining life as it regulates energy balance and provides the necessary energy for various cellular activities. Cells utilize this energy for growth, repair, and the execution of their specific functions. It is through metabolism that organisms can convert the nutrients obtained from food into usable energy forms, such as ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is vital for cellular activities and overall functioning. While digestion refers to the breaking down of food into smaller, absorbable units, and fermentation is a specific type of metabolic process that occurs in the absence of oxygen, these processes are part of the broader metabolic framework. Filtration, on the other hand, is related to the removal of unwanted substances but does not play a direct role in the conversion of food into energy. Therefore, metabolism is the overarching process that integrates these functions, making it essential for energy conversion and overall cell function.