human
For a project, I need to explain cellular metabolism. Could you provide a summary?
assistant
Cellular metabolism is the process by which cells produce energy and use it to perform necessary functions. In essence, the cell takes in nutrients such as glucose and breaks them down into simpler molecules like water and carbon dioxide in order to release energy. This energy production is a key part of cellular homeostasis and it allows a cell to maintain its normal shape, size, and function. Cellular metabolism also involves many interconnected pathways such as glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and the electron transport chain that cells use to take in and break down nutrients, release energy, and synthesize essential compounds.