Catabolic reactions are best described as:

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Multiple Choice

Catabolic reactions are best described as:

Catabolic reactions are metabolic pathways that break down complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy in the process. This liberated energy is captured to form ATP (and carriers like NADH or FADH2), which then powers other cellular activities. Because bonds are being broken, these reactions are exergonic, releasing free energy as they proceed. This contrasts with anabolic reactions, which build larger molecules from smaller ones and require an input of energy. Classic examples include glycolysis and cellular respiration, where glucose is progressively broken down to extract stored energy that the cell can use.

Catabolic reactions are metabolic pathways that break down complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy in the process. This liberated energy is captured to form ATP (and carriers like NADH or FADH2), which then powers other cellular activities. Because bonds are being broken, these reactions are exergonic, releasing free energy as they proceed. This contrasts with anabolic reactions, which build larger molecules from smaller ones and require an input of energy. Classic examples include glycolysis and cellular respiration, where glucose is progressively broken down to extract stored energy that the cell can use.

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