Isomers, Enantiomers, Functional Groups, and ATP - Vocabulary Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the notes on isomers (structural, cis-trans, enantiomers), chirality, pharmacology examples (ibuprofen, albuterol, L-/D-/R-/S- enantiomers, L-DOPA), functional groups (hydroxyl, carbonyl, aldehyde, ketone, carboxyl, amino, sulfhydryl, phosphate, methyl), and ATP-related chemistry (hydrolysis, phosphorylation, central dogma).

Isomer

A compound that has the same molecular formula as another compound but a different arrangement of atoms, resulting in different properties.

Structural isomer

Isomers that differ in how atoms are covalently connected (connectivity); same formula but different structure.

Cis-trans isomer

Geometric isomers differing in spatial arrangement around a double bond or ring; cis = same side, trans = opposite sides.

Enantiomer

One of a pair of molecules that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other; same formula and connectivity but different 3D orientation.

Chirality

Property of a molecule that makes it non-superimposable on its mirror image, leading to enantiomers.

L-enantiomer

The left-handed form of a chiral molecule (L-); often biologically relevant in enzymes and receptors.

D-enantiomer

The right-handed form of a chiral molecule (D-); the mirror counterpart to the L-enantiomer.

R-enantiomer

Configuration where CIP priorities give a clockwise arrangement around the chiral center.

S-enantiomer

Configuration where CIP priorities give a counterclockwise arrangement around the chiral center.

Ibuprofen S-enantiomer

The S-enantiomer is the pharmacologically active form of ibuprofen; the R-enantiomer is less active or inactive.

Albuterol enantiomers

Enantiomers of albuterol can have different pharmacological activity; one form may be more effective at bronchodilation.

L-DOPA

The L-enantiomer of DOPA that reduces Parkinson's disease symptoms; the D-enantiomer has little or no effect.

Functional group

A recognizable group of atoms attached to a carbon skeleton that largely determines chemical behavior; examples include hydroxyl, carbonyl, carboxyl, amino, phosphate, and methyl groups.

Hydroxyl group

–OH; polar; forms hydrogen bonds; found in alcohols (e.g., ethanol) and contributes to solubility.

Carbonyl group

C=O group; can be an aldehyde (at the end) or a ketone (in the middle) depending on position.

Aldehyde

A carbonyl group at the end of a carbon chain; sugars with aldehydes are aldoses.

Ketone

A carbonyl group within the carbon skeleton; sugars with ketones are ketoses (e.g., acetone as a simple example).

Carboxyl group

–COOH; acts as an acid by donating a hydrogen ion (H+) in solution; forms carboxylic acids.

Amino group

–NH2; acts as a base by accepting protons; common in amino acids.

Sulfhydryl group

–SH; forms disulfide cross-links that help stabilize proteins; known as thiols.

Phosphate group

–PO4H2; organic phosphate; energy-rich in molecules like ATP and involved in energy transfer.

Methyl group

–CH3; methylation can affect DNA, proteins, and hormones; influences shape, function, and gene expression.

ATP

Adenosine triphosphate; the energy currency of the cell, consisting of adenosine and three phosphate groups; hydrolysis releases energy.

ATP hydrolysis

Reaction of ATP with water that yields ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) and releases usable energy for cellular work.

Phosphorylation

Addition of a phosphate group to a molecule; can store energy and drive cellular processes; the reverse is dephosphorylation.

Central dogma

The flow of genetic information: DNA → RNA → Protein; RNA serves as an intermediate between DNA and protein.