What is the study of chemical composition and reactions of living matter called?

The study of chemical composition and reactions of living matter is referred to as biochemistry. This branch of science focuses specifically on the chemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms. It encompasses the study of biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates and how these molecules interact and contribute to the functioning of cells and organisms.

Biochemistry plays a crucial role in understanding the molecular mechanisms that underpin biological processes, such as metabolism, cellular respiration, and enzyme function. By exploring these chemical interactions and structures, biochemists can better understand how living systems operate at a molecular level, which is foundational to fields like medicine, genetics, and biotechnology.

In contrast, chemistry as a broader field includes the study of matter and its interactions but does not focus specifically on living systems. Physiology is more concerned with the functions of biological systems rather than their chemical composition. Organic chemistry, while it deals with the structure, properties, and reactions of organic compounds, does not exclusively pertain to living organisms and their biological processes. Therefore, biochemistry is the most precise term for this specific area of study related to the chemistry of living matter.