Understanding Life Processes in Living Organisms

Which life process involves maintaining cellular function and producing energy?

What is the main process responsible for the increase in mass over time due to the addition of new matter?

Which process involves the transmission of genetic information from one generation to another?

Which processes contribute to ensuring the survival of both the individual and the species?

What type of reactions break down food molecules to release energy within the body?

Which life process involves building up complex materials from simple ones?

Life processes refer to the various physical and chemical functions performed by living organisms to maintain their existence. These life processes can be categorized into three main types: metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Metabolism is the set of biochemical reactions involved in maintaining cellular function and producing energy; it includes both catabolic reactions, which break down food molecules to release energy, and anabolic reactions, which build up complex materials from simple ones. Growth refers to the increase in mass over time due to the addition of new matter, such as proteins or lipids; it occurs through cell division, leading to increased size and often more specialized cells with specific roles within an organism's body. Reproduction involves the transmission of genetic information from one generation to another through sexual means, such as fertilization, or asexual methods like cloning. Other key components of life processes include homeostasis, movement, responsiveness, adaptation, and excretion. Processes like these ensure that each individual remains alive and functional over its lifetime while also contributing to the survival of the species as a whole.

Explore the essential functions performed by living organisms to sustain life, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Learn about the biochemical reactions involved in energy production, the mechanisms of cellular growth, and the transmission of genetic information across generations.