chapter 2 lecture

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on elements, compounds, chemical bonds, the importance of water, and biological implications.

What is a compound?

A substance formed when two or more elements combine in a fixed ratio.

What are the four major elements found in the human body?

Oxygen, Carbon, Hydrogen, and Nitrogen.

What is the difference between an acid and a base?

An acid donates hydrogen ions to a solution, while a base reduces hydrogen ion concentration.

What property of water allows it to support plant life through nutrient transport?

Cohesion.

Why do ice cubes float on water?

Because ice is less dense than liquid water.

What is the significance of pH in a solution?

It measures the acidity or basicity of a solution, ranging from 0 (acidic) to 14 (basic).

What is a buffer?

A solution that minimizes changes in pH by accepting or donating hydrogen ions.

What process occurs when carbon dioxide is absorbed by oceans?

Ocean acidification.

Why do water molecules have a V shape?

Due to the highly electronegative nature of oxygen, which creates an unequal distribution of charges.

What is a simple example of a covalent bond?

The bond formed between two hydrogen atoms sharing electrons to create H2.