Which process is primarily focused on the chemical activities within cells?

The correct answer is metabolism because it specifically pertains to the chemical processes that occur within living cells, including the conversion of food into energy, the synthesis of cellular components, and the breakdown of waste products. Metabolism encompasses two main areas: catabolism, which is the breakdown of substances to release energy, and anabolism, which is the building up of cellular components. This intricate balance is crucial for maintaining life and supporting various cellular functions.

The other options serve different functions in the study of biological sciences. Physiology deals with how the body's systems function and interact, focusing on the roles and mechanisms of these processes. Anatomy, on the other hand, is concerned with the structure and organization of living organisms, examining what these structures are rather than their chemical activities. Biochemistry, while closely related, focuses more broadly on the chemical substances and vital processes occurring in living organisms, not just confined to metabolic pathways. Therefore, while metabolism is a component of biochemistry, it specifically narrows down to the chemical activities within cells, distinguishing it as the correct answer.