Molecules of Life and Enzyme Function

Flashcards covering key concepts related to enzymes, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and biochemical cycles.

Enzyme

A biological catalyst that speeds up reactions in the body by lowering activation energy.

Optimal Temperature

The temperature at which an enzyme is most active, leading to maximum reaction rate.

Denature

The process in which an enzyme loses its functional shape, often due to extreme pH or temperature.

Non-competitive Inhibitor

A molecule that binds to an enzyme at a site other than the active site, altering the enzyme's shape and function.

Competitive Inhibitor

A molecule that competes with the substrate for binding to the active site of an enzyme.

pH Scale

A measure of acidity or alkalinity of a substance, affecting enzyme activity based on their optimal pH.

Glycolysis

The first step of cellular respiration that occurs in the cytoplasm, breaking down glucose into pyruvate.

Krebs Cycle

The series of reactions in cellular respiration that occurs in the mitochondria, producing ATP, NADH, and FADH2.

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose, releasing oxygen.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

The primary energy carrier in cellular processes, composed of adenine, ribose, and three phosphate groups.

Carbon Cycle

The biochemical cycle that includes processes like photosynthesis and cellular respiration to transfer carbon among the biosphere, atmosphere, hydrophere, and geosphere.

Energy Pyramid

A graphical representation of energy flow in an ecosystem, showing how energy decreases at each trophic level.

Hydrolysis

A chemical process that breaks down polymers into monomers through the addition of water.

Dehydration Synthesis

The process of joining two molecules or compounds together with the removal of water.

Biomolecules

Large molecules essential to life, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Phytoplankton

Microscopic plants in aquatic environments that perform photosynthesis and provide oxygen for the atmosphere.