Here's a breakdown:
* Metabolism is the sum of all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism.
* Catabolism refers specifically to the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones. This process releases energy, which can be used to power other cellular processes.
* Anabolism, on the other hand, refers to the building up of complex molecules from simpler ones, requiring energy.
Examples of catabolic reactions in metabolism include:
* Cellular respiration: The breakdown of glucose to produce ATP (energy)
* Digestion: The breakdown of food molecules into smaller components that can be absorbed by the body
* Protein breakdown: The breakdown of proteins into amino acids
So, while decomposition is a broad term for any reaction that breaks down molecules, catabolism is the specific term for decomposition reactions within the context of metabolism.
