Biological Molecules and Reactions

These flashcards cover key concepts related to enzymes, reactions, and functional groups important in biological chemistry.

Enzyme

Proteins that speed up chemical reactions by lowering activation energy.

Induced Fit Model

The model describing how an enzyme slightly changes shape as the substrate binds.

Denature

When proteins lose their functional shape.

Activation Energy (Ea)

The initial input of energy required to start a chemical reaction.

Dehydration Synthesis

A process where monomers are joined together by removing water, forming a covalent bond.

Hydrolysis

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

Acid

A substance that produces H+ ions in water.

Base

A substance that produces OH- ions in water.

Conjugate Acid-Base Pair

An acid and base that differ by the presence or absence of a proton.

Buffer

A solution that minimizes changes in pH.

Macromolecules

Large molecules made of repeating monomers, also known as polymers.

Functional Group

A group of atoms that participate in chemical reactions, determining the properties of organic molecules.

Neutralization Reaction

A reaction where an acid and a base react to form salt and water.

Redox Reaction

A reaction involving the transfer of electrons, where oxidation is the loss of electrons and reduction is the gain of electrons.

Hydrocarbon

Compounds made of carbon and hydrogen, typically non-polar.