Chapter 3: Energetics of Biological Processes

[First paragraphs]: All systems, even biological systems, must obey physical laws. Thus, the energetics of biological processes must obey the laws of thermodynamics, which describe the conversion of energy from one form to another. Therefore, it is important to review these principles and how they relate to biological systems and the energy balance in livestock. This includes the distribution of energy from feed, the transfer of energy to and from the environment, and how livestock uses the energy.