Anatomy and Physiology II Practice Test 2026 - Free Anatomy Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term that describes the chemical processes that build food molecules into larger compounds is anabolism. Anabolism refers to the metabolic pathways that construct molecules from smaller units, which often requires energy. This process is essential for growth, repair, and the synthesis of essential biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids.

During anabolism, simple sugars may be combined to form polysaccharides, amino acids may join together to create proteins, and fatty acids can be linked to form triglycerides. This is in contrast to catabolism, which breaks down larger molecules into smaller ones, releasing energy in the process. Metabolism itself is a broader term that encompasses both anabolism and catabolism, while respiration specifically refers to the biochemical processes that convert nutrients into energy, usually involving oxygen. Thus, anabolism precisely captures the essence of building larger compounds from smaller food molecules.