SA PT 1 Chemistry of Life

Atom

Smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element.

Element

A substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances.

Neutron

A subatomic particle with no charge, found in the nucleus.

Electron

A negatively charged subatomic particle that orbits the nucleus.

Orbital

A region around the nucleus where electrons are likely to be found.

Reactants

Substances that start a reaction.

Products

Substances formed by a reaction.

Synthesis

Two or more substances combine to form a new compound.

Decomposition

A compound breaks down into simpler substances.

Ionic Bond

Bond formed by the transfer of electrons.

Covalent Bond

Bond formed by sharing electrons.

Hydrogen Bond

Weak bond between a hydrogen atom and another atom.

Acids

Substances that release hydrogen ions (H+).

Bases

Substances that release hydroxide ions (OH−).

Salts

Formed from the reaction of an acid and a base.

Buffers

Substances that minimize changes in pH.

Nucleotide

Building block of DNA and RNA.

DNA

Stores genetic information.

RNA

Helps synthesize proteins.

Enzymes

Biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions.

Catalyst

Substance that increases reaction rate without being consumed.

Polysaccharides

Many monosaccharides linked together.

Monosaccharides

Simple sugars like glucose.

Lipids

Fats and oils that are insoluble in water.

Amino Acid

Building block of proteins.