Lecture 12 – Chemical Reactions

These flashcards cover key concepts related to chemical reactions, including types of reactions, mechanisms, and important chemical species discussed during the lecture.

Chemical Reaction

A process in which a molecule or molecules are transformed into other molecule or molecules, typically by making or breaking bonds.

Reactant

A starting material in a chemical reaction.

Product

The compound or molecules resulting from a chemical reaction.

Intermediate

Compounds that form during the course of a chemical reaction but are not present in the final product.

Mechanism

The detailed process of how a reaction occurs, including bond breaking and formation.

Reaction Pathway

The overall sequence of steps and intermediates in a chemical reaction.

Oxidation

A reaction where a compound loses one or more electrons, resulting in an increase in oxidation state.

Reduction

A reaction where a compound gains one or more electrons, resulting in a decrease in oxidation state.

Reactive Oxygen Species

Chemically reactive molecules containing oxygen, which can cause damage to cells and are linked to aging and disease.

Antioxidants

Compounds that can react with and neutralize free radicals, potentially mitigating oxidative damage.

Combustion Reaction

A chemical reaction where oxygen gas reacts with a carbon-containing compound to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy.

Proton Transfer Reaction

A reaction where a molecule gains or loses a proton, typically involving an acid and a base.

Aldehyde

A compound containing a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to at least one hydrogen atom.

Ketone

A compound containing a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two carbon atoms.

Hydrolysis

A chemical reaction in which a bond is cleaved by the addition of water.

Condensation Reaction

A reaction in which two molecules are joined together, releasing a small molecule like water.

Equilibrium

The state in a reversible reaction where the forward and reverse reactions occur at the same rate.

Electrolyte

A substance that dissociates into ions in solution and acquires the capacity to conduct electricity.

Deprotonated Alcohol

An alcohol that has lost a proton, often acting as a strong base.

Amide

A functional group characterized by a carbonyl group (C=O) linked to a nitrogen atom.

Carboxylic Acid

An organic compound characterized by the presence of a carboxyl group (-COOH).

Carboxylate

The deprotonated form of a carboxylic acid, typically more stable and reactive.