Atoms, Ions, and Molecules Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover important concepts in anatomy and physiology regarding atoms, ions, molecules, and their interactions.

What is matter defined as in the context of atoms and elements?

Matter has mass and occupies space.

What are the three forms of matter?

Solid, liquid, and gas.

What is the smallest particle exhibiting chemical properties of an element?

Atom.

How many naturally occurring elements make up matter?

92 naturally occurring elements.

What organizes the elements based on increasing electronegativity?

The periodic table of elements.

What three subatomic particles make up an atom?

Neutrons, protons, and electrons.

Where are protons and neutrons located in an atom?

In the nucleus.

What is the charge and mass of a proton?

Positive charge (+1) and mass of one atomic mass unit (amu).

How do you determine the neutron number of an element?

Neutron number = atomic mass - atomic number.

What is the octet rule?

Elements tend to lose, gain, or share electrons to obtain complete outer shells with eight electrons.

What is an isotope?

Different atoms of the same element with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

What is a radioisotope?

An isotope that contains excess neutrons and is chemically unstable.

What does the pH scale measure?

The relative amount of hydrogen ions in a solution.

What is a covalent bond?

A bond formed when atoms share electrons.

What distinguishes a nonpolar covalent bond from a polar covalent bond?

In nonpolar covalent bonds, electrons are shared equally, while in polar covalent bonds, electrons are shared unequally.

What is a solvent?

A substance that dissolves one or more solutes.

What are hydrophilic substances?

Substances that dissolve in water and are 'water-loving'.

How do buffers function in biological systems?

Buffers help prevent pH changes by accepting excess acids or donating bases.

What is the primary function of proteins?

They serve various functions, including catalyzing reactions, providing structural support, and facilitating transport.

What is a triglyceride?

A lipid formed from glycerol and three fatty acids used for long-term energy storage.

What types of macromolecules are carbohydrates?

Polymers made of sugar monomers.

What are nucleic acids?

Polymers that store and transfer genetic information, such as DNA and RNA.

What are the characteristics of amphipathic molecules?

Molecules that have both polar and nonpolar regions.