Definition: "biochem" is a branch of chemistry that deals with the study of chemical processes in living organisms, including cells. It studies how biological molecules (enzymes and proteins) work together to carry out various chemical reactions within the cell and other organelles. The word "biochem" has been used historically to refer to the science of biology, but it has also come to denote a specialized branch of chemistry that focuses on understanding the molecular structures, function, and interactions of biological molecules. The field is important for both theoretical research and practical applications in medicine, agriculture, environmental science, and other fields. One key aspect of this branch of chemistry is the study of metabolism, which involves understanding how metabolic pathways are controlled within cells. This includes studies on enzymes that catalyze reactions, as well as the role of these molecules in regulating cellular functions such as growth, division, reproduction, and energy production. The word "biochem" also refers to a specialized subfield of organic chemistry that is used to study molecular structures and functional groups (such as hydroxyl or carboxyl). This field has been important for understanding the structure and function of biological molecules and for developing new materials and drugs that can target specific biochemical pathways. Overall, "biochem" represents a broad interdisciplinary field that explores the complex interactions between cells, enzymes, and molecules to understand how they work together to carry out cellular functions and processes.