Chapter 4.1-4.4

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cellular metabolism, including metabolic reactions, the roles of enzymes, ATP production, and the processes involved in cellular respiration.

Metabolism

The sum of all the chemical reactions within the body.

Anabolism

The process of building larger molecules from smaller ones, requiring energy (ATP).

Dehydration Synthesis

A chemical reaction that builds up molecules by losing water, used in the formation of polysaccharides, proteins, and triglycerides.

Catabolism

The process of breaking down larger molecules into smaller ones, producing energy (ATP) and using water (hydrolysis).

Enzymes

Globular proteins that catalyze specific reactions and increase the rate of chemical reactions.

Activation Energy

The minimum energy needed to start a chemical reaction.

Cofactors

Non-protein substances that combine with enzymes to activate them and ensure proper function.

Coenzymes

Organic molecules that act as cofactors, often derived from vitamins.

Denaturation

The irreversible change in an enzyme's conformation, rendering it inactive.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

The primary energy-carrying molecule in the cell, consisting of adenine, ribose, and three phosphate groups.

Cellular Respiration

The process by which cells release energy from glucose, involving glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and the electron transport chain.

Anaerobic Reactions

Reactions that do not require oxygen and produce little ATP.

Aerobic Reactions

Reactions that require oxygen and produce the majority of ATP.

Citric Acid Cycle

A series of metabolic reactions that convert acetyl CoA into energy, producing ATP and releasing CO2.

Electron Transport Chain (ETC)

A series of enzyme complexes that transfer electrons and generate ATP through oxidative phosphorylation.

Glycolysis

The first step of glucose metabolism, converting glucose into pyruvate while producing ATP and NADH.