biochemistry

/ˈbaɪoʊkɛmɪstri/

/baɪəʊˈkɛmɪstri/

Biochemistry is the field of science that explores the molecules and processes that occur in living things.

The term biochemistry comes from adding bio-, or "life," to chemistry, which is the science that deals with the composition, structures, and properties of substances, along with the reactions and transformations they undergo in combination. Looking at the human body through the lens of biochemistry can help us understand processes like digestion and nutrition. Proteins, carbohydrates, and other nutrients are all chemicals — and it's thanks to biochemical reactions that your body's cells are able to absorb glucose and create energy to keep you going.

Definitions of biochemistry

1. noun

   the science that studies life-sustaining molecular activities and energy transformations in organisms
   types:

   enzymology

   the branch of biochemistry dealing with the chemical nature and biological activity of enzymes

   zymology, zymurgy

   the branch of chemistry concerned with fermentation (as in making wine or brewing or distilling)

   type of:

   organic chemistry

   the chemistry of compounds containing carbon (originally defined as the chemistry of substances produced by living organisms but now extended to substances synthesized artificially)
2. noun

   the life-sustaining molecular activities and energy transformations that occur within organisms