Which statement best describes how a person's metabolism changes throughout life?

• A. A person's metabolism stops after adolescence because growth is complete.
• B. A person's metabolism changes throughout life in response to age, growth, hormones, and activity level.
• C. A person's metabolism remains constant throughout life.
• D. A person's metabolism only changes during sleep and is otherwise constant.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of metabolism: Metabolism refers to all the chemical reactions in the body that maintain life, including those that convert food into energy and those that build or repair tissues.
2. Recognize that metabolism is dynamic: It is influenced by various factors such as age, growth, hormone levels, and physical activity, which means it does not remain constant throughout life.
3. Consider how metabolism changes with age: For example, metabolic rate tends to be higher during childhood and adolescence due to growth and development, and it often slows down as a person ages.
4. Acknowledge the role of hormones and activity level: Hormonal changes (like those during puberty or menopause) and changes in physical activity can increase or decrease metabolic rate at different life stages.
5. Conclude that metabolism is a lifelong, adaptable process that responds to internal and external factors, rather than stopping or remaining constant after a certain age or only changing during sleep.