The Chemistry of Organic Molecules

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on organic molecules, their classifications, and importance in biology.

Organic Molecules

Molecules that contain both carbon and hydrogen atoms, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Carbohydrates

Organic compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in a 1:2:1 ratio, serving as an energy source and structural material.

Lipids

Large, nonpolar molecules that are insoluble in water, serving functions like energy storage, structural components, and protection.

Proteins

Polymers of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, essential for various cellular functions including catalyzing reactions and providing structure.

Nucleic Acids

Polymers of nucleotides that store genetic information; include DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid).

Monomer

The basic building block or subunit of a polymer, such as amino acids for proteins.

Polymer

A large molecule composed of many repeating monomers, such as starch formed from glucose.

Dehydration Reaction

A reaction that joins monomers together by forming a covalent bond and releasing water.

Hydrolysis Reaction

A reaction that breaks down polymers into monomers by adding water.

Isomers

Organic molecules that have identical molecular formulas but different structural arrangements.

Functional Groups

Specific clusters of atoms in organic molecules that determine their chemical reactivity and properties.

Enzymes

Special proteins that act as catalysts in biochemical reactions, speeding up reactions without being consumed.

Amino Acids

The monomers of proteins; 20 different amino acids with varying side chains (R groups) that determine their properties.

Saturated Fatty Acids

Fatty acids with no double bonds between carbon atoms, typically solid at room temperature.

Unsaturated Fatty Acids

Fatty acids with one or more double bonds, usually liquid at room temperature.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

A high-energy nucleotide that powers cellular processes through the hydrolysis of its phosphate bonds.

Complementary Base Pairing

The specific hydrogen bonding between nitrogen-containing bases of DNA: adenine with thymine, and cytosine with guanine.