Metabolism and Homeostasis definitions Flashcards

The sum of all chemical reactions in an organism that convert food into energy, build cellular structures, and eliminate waste, essential for sustaining life.

The regulation of an organism's internal environment to maintain stable, optimal conditions despite external changes.

The process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy (ATP), carbon dioxide, and water, essential for cellular functions and energy production.

The total area of the outer surface of a biological structure, crucial for processes like diffusion, nutrient absorption, and heat exchange, often optimized by folding, flattening, or branching.

The amount of three-dimensional space an object or substance occupies, crucial in understanding physiological constraints and metabolic rates in biology.

Tiny, finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase surface area for nutrient absorption.

Tiny, hair-like projections on the surface of intestinal cells that significantly increase surface area for nutrient absorption.

Tiny blood vessels that connect arteries and veins, facilitating the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste between blood and tissues through their thin walls.

Organisms that generate body heat through internal metabolic processes, maintaining a stable internal temperature regardless of external conditions.