what can living organisms incorporate into their metabolism

Answer 1

Living organisms can incorporate various substances into their metabolism. Some of the main substances are:

1. Carbohydrates: Living organisms can break down carbohydrates, such as glucose, for energy production through cellular respiration.

2. Lipids: Organisms can metabolize lipids, such as fats and oils, for energy storage and utilization. Lipids can be broken down into fatty acids and glycerol.

3. Proteins: Proteins can be broken down into amino acids through digestion and then used for energy production or to build new proteins.

4. Nucleic acids: Living organisms can incorporate nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, into their metabolism to carry genetic information and regulate cellular processes.

5. Vitamins and minerals: Various vitamins and minerals play crucial roles in metabolic reactions. For example, B vitamins are involved in energy production and vitamin C is needed for collagen synthesis.

6. Organic compounds: Organisms can take up organic compounds from the environment and incorporate them into their metabolism. These compounds can include sugars, amino acids, and organic acids.

7. Inorganic compounds: Living organisms can also use inorganic compounds, such as water and salts, in their metabolic processes.

It is important to note that the specific substances incorporated into an organism's metabolism can vary depending on the species and its specific metabolic requirements.