The Chemistry of Life

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on the chemistry of life, including biochemistry fundamentals, atomic structure, chemical bonding, and biological molecules.

What is biochemistry?

The study of the molecules that compose living organisms, including carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and nucleic acids.

What are the six most abundant elements in the human body?

Oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, calcium, and phosphorus.

What is an atom?

The smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element.

What is the atomic number?

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.

What are isotopes?

Varieties of an element that differ in the number of neutrons, hence affecting atomic mass.

Define a cation.

A particle that has a net positive charge due to the loss of electrons.

What is an anion?

A particle that has a net negative charge due to the gain of electrons.

What bonds are formed by the sharing of electron pairs?

Covalent bonds.

What is the primary function of electrolytes in the body?

To support chemical reactivity, osmotic effects, and electrical excitability of nerves and muscles.

What is the role of free radicals in the body?

Unstable molecules that can trigger reactions that destroy molecules and may contribute to aging and disease.

Describe the process of ionization.

The transfer of electrons from one atom to another, resulting in charged particles called ions.

What is a hydrogen bond?

A weak attraction between a slightly positive hydrogen atom in one molecule and a slightly negative atom in another.

What is the pH scale?

A measure of acidity or alkalinity of a solution, where pH 7 is neutral.

Define a solution.

A mixture where solute particles are dissolved in a solvent and uniformly distributed.

What are carbohydrates?

Hydrophilic organic molecules that serve as a major source of energy.

What is an enzyme?

A protein that acts as a biological catalyst, speeding up biochemical reactions.

What are nucleic acids?

Polymers of nucleotides that store and transmit genetic information, including DNA and RNA.

How is ATP related to energy transfer in cells?

ATP is the primary energy transfer molecule, storing energy in its phosphate bonds for various cellular processes.

What are the main functions of proteins in living organisms?

Structure, communication, transport, catalysis, recognition and protection, and movement.