The term used to refer to reactions that break down larger molecules into their smaller components is "catabolism".
Explanation of Catabolism
Catabolism is a metabolic process where large molecules such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins are broken down into smaller units like monosaccharides, fatty acids, and amino acids, respectively. This process often releases energy, which the body can then use for various functions. Catabolic reactions are crucial in metabolism as they provide the energy and smaller molecules necessary for anabolic (building) reactions.
Contrast with Anabolism
In contrast, anabolism is the process of building up larger molecules from smaller components, using energy typically produced by catabolic reactions.
Thus, the term describing the breakdown of larger molecules into smaller components in biochemical processes is definitively catabolism.
