Chemical pathways are sequences of chemical reactions that occur within a cell or organism. These pathways involve various molecules, including enzymes, substrates, and products, which interact in a specific order to facilitate biological processes. For example, the glycolysis pathway breaks down glucose to produce energy in the form of ATP. Each chemical pathway is tightly regulated to ensure that the right reactions occur at the right time. Disruptions in these pathways can lead to metabolic disorders or diseases. Understanding these pathways is crucial for fields like biochemistry and pharmacology, as they provide insights into how cells function and how drugs can target specific reactions.