1. Chemical reactions in cells are known as metabolism and allow for all life activities and processes. These reactions either release or store energy. 2. Enzymes are protein molecules that act as biological catalysts, lowering the activation energy needed for reactions and allowing reactions to occur quickly at normal body temperatures. Each enzyme catalyzes a specific reaction. 3. Cells use energy stored in chemical bonds of food molecules through a series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions. Energy is temporarily stored and transported within cells in ATP molecules to power cellular work.