What does metabolism refer to in living organisms?

Metabolism in living organisms refers to the complex set of chemical processes that facilitate the nourishment and energy production necessary for maintaining life. This encompasses a variety of functions, including the conversion of food into energy, the synthesis of necessary compounds, and the elimination of waste products. Through metabolism, organisms break down nutrients (catabolism) to release energy and build cellular structures (anabolism) essential for growth, repair, and maintenance.

While the other options reference important biological concepts, they do not accurately define metabolism. Genetic material pertains to DNA and heredity, the process of growth and aging relates to developmental biology, and cellular reproduction describes how cells divide and reproduce. Metabolism specifically highlights the biochemical energy transformations that are critical for sustaining life in organisms.