What is the term for the chemical process that nourishes cells and carries out their activities?

The term that describes the chemical process responsible for nourishing cells and facilitating their activities is metabolism. Metabolism encompasses all the biochemical reactions that occur within living organisms, including how cells convert food into energy and the synthesis of necessary compounds for cellular functions.

Metabolism can be divided into two main categories: anabolic processes, which build up molecules and require energy, and catabolic processes, which break down molecules to release energy. This balance is crucial for cell health and function.

In contrast, photosynthesis is a specific process used by plants and some microorganisms to convert light energy into chemical energy. Catabolism refers specifically to the breakdown of molecules, and fermentation is a metabolic process that occurs in the absence of oxygen, primarily converting sugars into acids, gases, or alcohol. While these terms relate to metabolism, they do not encompass the entire scope of what metabolism entails for cell nourishment and function.