What is the term for the decomposition of fats?

The term for the decomposition of fats is lipolysis. This process involves breaking down triglycerides, which are the main constituents of body fat in humans and other animals, into glycerol and free fatty acids. Lipolysis is a crucial metabolic pathway that provides energy during periods of fasting or low-carbohydrate intake, contributing to the body's energy balance by releasing stored energy.

In contrast, lipogenesis refers to the process of converting carbohydrates or proteins into fatty acids, effectively building up fat reserves rather than breaking them down. Proteolysis, on the other hand, pertains to the breakdown of proteins into amino acids, and glycolysis is the metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate, playing a key role in energy production from carbohydrates. Understanding these terms and their specific metabolic roles is essential for grasping how energy is utilized and stored in the body.