The Chemistry of Organic Molecules

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to the chemistry of organic molecules, including their structures, functions, and reactions.

Organic Molecules

Molecules that contain both carbon and hydrogen atoms.

Carbohydrates

Organic molecules consisting of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, typically in a 1:2:1 ratio, used for energy and structural purposes.

Lipids

Large, nonpolar molecules that are insoluble in water, serving as long-term energy storage and structural components.

Proteins

Polymers of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds, performing various functions like catalysis and structure.

Nucleic Acids

Polymers of nucleotides (DNA and RNA) that store and transmit genetic information.

Functional Groups

Clusters of specific atoms bonded to the carbon skeleton that determine the chemical reactivity and polarity of organic molecules.

Monomer

A repeating unit that makes up a polymer.

Polymer

A large molecule composed of many repeating subunits (monomers).

Dehydration Reaction

A chemical reaction where two monomers are joined together by forming a covalent bond and releasing water.

Hydrolysis Reaction

A chemical reaction that adds water to break a covalent bond, converting polymers into monomers.

Isomers

Organic molecules that have identical molecular formulas but different arrangements of atoms.

Amino Acids

The building blocks of proteins; 20 different common amino acids exist, differing by their variable R groups.

Peptide Bond

A covalent bond between two amino acids formed during a dehydration reaction.

Enzyme

A molecule that accelerates a chemical reaction and is not consumed in the process.

Saturated Fatty Acids

Fatty acids with no double bonds between carbons, typically solid at room temperature.

Unsaturated Fatty Acids

Fatty acids with one or more double bonds between carbons, typically liquid at room temperature.

Phospholipids

Molecules consisting of one glycerol, two fatty acids, and a phosphate group, forming the cell membrane.

Hydrophilic

Having an affinity for water; polar molecules that mix well with water.

Hydrophobic

Having an aversion to water; nonpolar molecules that do not mix well with water.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

A nucleotide that acts as the energy currency of the cell, composed of adenine, ribose, and three phosphate groups.

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

A nucleic acid that stores genetic information and is double-stranded with complementary base pairing.

RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)

A nucleic acid involved in protein synthesis and regulation of gene expression, typically single-stranded.