Matter and Energy Pathways in Living Systems

Flashcards about matter and energy pathways in living systems.

Metabolism

The totality of an organism’s chemical reactions.

Anabolic Pathways

Uses energy to synthesize larger molecules from simpler/smaller ones.

Catabolic Pathways

Breaks down larger molecules into simpler/smaller one and releases energy.

ATP (adenosine triphosphate)

The source of energy that all organisms use for cellular activities.

Phosphorylation

The addition of one or more phosphates to a molecule, requiring an energy input.

De-phosphorylation

The removal of one or more phosphate from a molecule, releasing energy.

NADPH (nicotinamide dinucleotide phosphate)

An energy containing molecule formed during photosynthesis; accepts 1H+ ion and 2 e- to form NADPH.

Redox Reactions

A reaction involving the transfer of one or more electrons from one reactant to another.

Oxidation

The loss of electrons.

Reduction

The addition of electrons.

Reducing Agent

Molecule that loses electrons

Oxidizing Agent

Molecule that gains electrons

hydrolysis

chemical reaction where the addition of water splits a molecule into its subunits