Chemistry of Life (Bonds, Elements and Molecules)

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the notes on the chemistry of life, including types of chemical bonds, the significance of carbon in biomolecules, and the primary elements found in living organisms.

Covalent Bond

A strong bond where atoms share electrons.

Ionic Bond

A bond formed between oppositely charged ions that are attracted to each other.

Hydrogen Bond

A weak bond between polar molecules, represented by a dotted line.

Polar Covalent Bond

A type of covalent bond where electrons are shared unequally between atoms.

Nonpolar Covalent Bond

A type of covalent bond where electrons are shared equally between atoms.

Electronegativity

A measure of the tendency of an atom to attract a bonding pair of electrons.

Biomolecules

Large molecules that are essential for life, including proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates.

SPONCH

A mnemonic for the primary elements of living matter: Sulfur, Phosphorus, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Carbon, and Hydrogen.

C-based structures

Molecules that are primarily made up of carbon, forming a variety of structures.

Hydrophilic

Substances that are attracted to water and can dissolve in it.

Hydrophobic

Substances that repel water and do not dissolve easily in it.