Chemistry of Life – A Pre-Nursing Student’s Guide

Matter

Anything that has mass and takes up space; includes all substances in the body.

Atoms

Basic units of matter composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons, which make up elements like O, C, H, and N.

Covalent Bonds

Strong bonds formed when atoms share electrons, symbolizing teamwork.

Ionic Bonds

Bonds formed by the transfer of electrons between atoms, akin to giving and taking.

Hydrogen Bonds

Weak interactions important for maintaining the structure of water and biological molecules.

pH Balance

The measure of acidity or alkalinity of a solution, crucial for maintaining proper body function.

Macromolecules

Large molecules essential for life; include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

ATP

Adenosine triphosphate, the energy currency of cells; necessary for cellular function.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, the genetic material that contains instructions for protein synthesis.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid, involved in protein synthesis by conveying instructions from DNA.