What term describes the chemical processes that maintain life within a living organism?

The term that describes the chemical processes that maintain life within a living organism is metabolism. Metabolism encompasses all the biochemical reactions that occur within cells, allowing the body to transform food into energy, build and repair tissues, and regulate its internal environment. It is essentially the sum of all chemical reactions that provide the necessary functions for survival.

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes, but it is a broader concept that is achieved through the metabolic processes. Catabolism and anabolism are specific components of metabolism; catabolism involves the breakdown of molecules to release energy, while anabolism refers to the synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones, utilizing energy. Therefore, metabolism is the overarching term that includes both of these processes, highlighting its importance in sustaining life.