pH, Homeostasis, and Biomolecules

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding pH, homeostasis, and various biomolecules important for understanding biological processes.

pH

The concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution.

Hydrogen ion (H⁺)

An atom of hydrogen that has lost its electron, making it positively charged.

Acidic pH

A pH lower than 7.0, indicating a high concentration of hydrogen ions.

Basic pH

A pH higher than 7.0, indicating a low concentration of hydrogen ions.

Neutral pH

A pH of 7.0, where hydrogen and hydroxide ions are balanced.

Buffer

A substance that stabilizes pH by neutralizing strong acids or bases.

Carbohydrates

Organic compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, typically in a 1:2:1 ratio.

Monomer

The basic subunit that can join together to form polymers.

Polysaccharides

Carbohydrates that are polymers of many sugars, formed by dehydration synthesis.

Amino acids

Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins.

Enzyme

A protein that acts as a catalyst to speed up chemical reactions by lowering their activation energy.

Cofactor

An ion or molecule that binds to an enzyme and is necessary for the enzyme's activity.

Dehydration synthesis

A chemical reaction that builds up molecules by losing water molecules.

Hydrolysis

A reaction that breaks down molecules by the addition of water.

Stronger acid

An acid that completely dissociates in solution.

Isomer

Molecules with the same molecular formula but different structures.