exam 1

Atom

The basic unit of a chemical element consisting of a nucleus surrounded by electrons.

Isotopes

Variants of a particular chemical element which differ in neutron number.

Covalent bond

A type of chemical bond where atoms share pairs of electrons.

Ionic bond

A chemical bond formed through the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions.

Free radical

An atom or molecule that has unpaired electrons, making it highly reactive.

pH

A measure of how acidic or basic a solution is, measured on a scale of 0 to 14.

Reactants

Substances that are transformed in a chemical reaction.

Products

Substances formed as a result of a chemical reaction.

Dehydration synthesis

A reaction where two molecules are bonded together with the removal of water.

Hydrolysis

A reaction where water is used to break down a compound.

Macromolecules

Large, complex molecules that are fundamental to biological structure and function.

Triglycerides

A type of fat found in your blood, composed of three fatty acids and glycerol.

Saturated fatty acid

A fatty acid that has no double bonds between the carbon atoms.

Unsaturated fatty acid

A fatty acid containing one or more double bonds between carbon atoms.

Amino acids

Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins.

Denaturation

The process in which a protein unravels, losing its specific structure and function.

Nucleotide

The basic building block of nucleic acids, consisting of a sugar, phosphate group, and nitrogenous base.

Enzyme-substrate complex

A temporary complex formed when an enzyme binds to its substrate.

Glycolysis

The metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate, yielding energy.

Aerobic respiration

The process of producing cellular energy involving oxygen.

Krebs cycle

A series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy.

Calorie

A unit of energy defined as the amount of heat needed to raise the temperature of 1 gram of water by 1 degree Celsius.

Macronutrients

Nutrients required in large amounts for energy and growth, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Micronutrients

Vitamins and minerals required in smaller amounts for proper functioning of the body.

LDL

Low-density lipoprotein, often referred to as 'bad' cholesterol that can build up in arteries.

HDL

High-density lipoprotein, known as 'good' cholesterol that helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream.