Anabolic and catabolic reactions
What Anabolic and catabolic reactions means in Biology GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Anabolic and catabolic reactions
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Anabolic and catabolic reactions in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Anabolic reactions build new molecules, such as amino acids joining to form proteins, while catabolic reactions break molecules down, such as glucose being oxidised in respiration to release energy.
Topics that use Anabolic and catabolic reactions
- The human digestive system (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Absorption and transport
- active site
- Active site and substrate binding
- Amylase
- Apparatus and measurement skills
- Benedict’s test for reducing sugars
- Biological catalysts
- Cellular respiration
Using Anabolic and catabolic reactions in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Biology questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge