Atoms, Ions, and Molecules - Anatomy & Physiology

A collection of flashcards summarizing key concepts from the lecture on Atoms, Ions, and Molecules in Anatomy & Physiology.

What are the three forms of matter?

Solid, Liquid, Gas.

What is the smallest particle that exhibits the chemical properties of an element?

An atom.

How many naturally occurring elements make up matter?

92.

What do the rows in the periodic table represent?

Elements are arranged by atomic number.

What is an isotope?

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

What are the two types of particles that make up an atom's nucleus?

Protons and neutrons.

What is the charge of an electron?

Negative charge of -1.

What is the octet rule?

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

What are cations?

Atoms with a positive charge due to loss of electrons.

What are anions?

Atoms with a negative charge due to gain of electrons.

What type of bond is formed between cations and anions?

Ionic bonds.

What is a covalent bond?

A bond formed when atoms share electrons.

What is the difference between polar and nonpolar covalent bonds?

Polar bonds share electrons unequally, while nonpolar bonds share electrons equally.

What are amphipathic molecules?

Large molecules with both polar and nonpolar regions.

How does water behave due to hydrogen bonding?

It has high cohesion, surface tension, and high specific heat.

What is pH a measure of?

The relative concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution.

What is a buffer?

A substance that helps prevent pH changes by accepting or donating hydrogen ions.

What defines a suspension in water mixtures?

Material larger in size than 1 mm that does not remain mixed unless in motion.

What is the general structure of nucleic acids?

Polymers composed of nucleotide monomers linked by phosphodiester bonds.

What are the two classes of nucleic acids?

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA).

What is the function of proteins?

Catalyze chemical reactions, provide structural support, transport substances, and protect the body (e.g., antibodies).