What is the process of building up larger molecules from smaller ones called?

The process of building up larger molecules from smaller ones is known as anabolism. Anabolism is a subset of metabolism and involves the synthesis of complex molecules, which can include proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates, from simpler ones. This process requires energy, as it is essentially constructing new materials that the body requires for growth, repair, and maintenance.

Understanding anabolism is crucial because it is fundamental to many physiological functions, including tissue growth, hormone production, and energy storage. The energy required for this process usually comes from the breakdown of other molecules, such as ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which serves as an energy currency in biological systems.

In contrast, catabolism is the process that breaks down larger molecules into smaller ones, releasing energy in the process. Metabolism encompasses both anabolic and catabolic reactions as it refers to the total of all chemical reactions in the body. Photosynthesis is a specific anabolic process carried out by plants and certain bacteria to convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, and while it involves the formation of larger molecules, it specifically pertains to plant biology.

Therefore, the choice of anabolism as the correct answer accurately reflects the definition of the process in question.