Which term refers to the management of energy production and consumption in the body?

• A. Regulates blood pressure
• B. Maintains body temperature
• C. Manages energy production and consumption
• D. Stores minerals

Answer: (C)

Metabolism describes the body's entire set of chemical reactions that manage energy—from breaking down nutrients to release energy (catabolism) to using that energy to build and repair tissues (anabolism). This overall balance and flow of energy production and energy use determine how the body fuels activities, maintains functions, and regulates growth and repair. The other options point to specific roles like blood pressure control, temperature regulation, or mineral storage, but they don’t capture the whole system that coordinates energy production and expenditure. Metabolism is the term that best fits this description.