What term refers to the breakdown of substances, formation of new products, or energy transfer between substances?

Metabolism is the comprehensive term that encompasses all chemical reactions occurring within an organism, including both the breakdown of substances and the formation of new products. It is a broad concept that incorporates various processes that convert food into energy, eliminate waste products, and synthesize important biomolecules necessary for growth and repair.

In metabolism, energy transfer is a crucial aspect, as it involves the transformation of energy from one form to another during these reactions. Both catabolism and anabolism (the synthesis of compounds) fall under the umbrella of metabolism. Catabolism specifically highlights the breakdown processes where larger molecules are decomposed into smaller ones, often releasing energy in the process.

Homeostasis relates to maintaining a stable internal environment but does not directly refer to the chemical reactions that occur within the body. Oxidation is a specific type of reaction that involves the loss of electrons and can be a part of metabolic processes, but it does not cover all aspects of metabolism. Thus, metabolism is the most suitable term that captures the complete range of chemical reactions occurring in biological systems.