Q. Which of the following is a primary metabolite?
Solution:
The product of metabolic reactions is called metabolites. Metabolites which are the main product of certain processes are called primary metabolites. During the organism's growth process, primary metabolites are generated. This growth process is also known as 'trophophase'. Glucose is the main product of photosynthesis thus is a primary metabolite. They are involved directly in an organism's metabolic pathways essential for its development, growth, and reproduction. Proteins, enzymes, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, ethanol, lactic acid, butanol are some examples of primary metabolites.
Secondary metabolites are waste products or excretory products which are converted to nontoxic forms, these are present in plants, bacteria, and fungi. They are formed by different organisms that are not directly involved in the organism's development, growth, or reproduction but are important in ecological and other activities. During the stationary phase of the organism, secondary metabolites are formed. This growth process is also known as 'idiophase'. Steroids, essential oils, phenolics, alkaloids, pigments, antibiotics, and so on are some examples of secondary metabolites.
Secondary metabolites are waste products or excretory products which are converted to nontoxic forms, these are present in plants, bacteria, and fungi. They are formed by different organisms that are not directly involved in the organism's development, growth, or reproduction but are important in ecological and other activities. During the stationary phase of the organism, secondary metabolites are formed. This growth process is also known as 'idiophase'. Steroids, essential oils, phenolics, alkaloids, pigments, antibiotics, and so on are some examples of secondary metabolites.