Biochemistry

What defines organic compounds?

Organic compounds are defined by the presence of carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds.

What are some examples of inorganic compounds?

Examples of inorganic compounds include water (H2O), salts (e.g., NaCl), acids (e.g., HCl), and bases (e.g., NaOH).

What is dehydration synthesis?

Dehydration synthesis is a process where two smaller molecules (monomers) are joined together to form a larger molecule (polymer), involving the removal of a water molecule (H2O).

What does hydrolysis involve?

Hydrolysis is the process where a large molecule (polymer) is broken down into smaller molecules (monomers) by the addition of a water molecule (H2O).

What are the elements that make up carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates are made up of Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), and Oxygen (O) in a ratio often approximating (CH2O)n.

What are the monomers of carbohydrates?

The monomers of carbohydrates are monosaccharides, such as glucose, fructose, and galactose.

What are the functions of lipids?

Lipids function in long-term energy storage, insulation, cushioning, and are major components of cell membranes.

What are the monomers of proteins?

The monomers of proteins are amino acids, of which there are 20 different types.

What are the components of a nucleotide?

A nucleotide consists of a pentose sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

What is the pH scale range?

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with pH < 7 being acidic, pH = 7 being neutral, and pH > 7 being basic.

What characterizes enzymes among proteins?

Enzymes are proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions.

How are polysaccharides formed?

Polysaccharides are formed through dehydration synthesis of monosaccharides.

What is a key characteristic of steroids?

Steroids are characterized by a carbon skeleton consisting of four fused rings.

What role do buffers play in solutions?

Buffers are substances that resist changes in pH by accepting or donating hydrogen ions (H+).