Biochemistry - Unicellular and Multicellular Organisms

Flashcards covering key concepts in biochemistry related to inorganic and organic compounds, essential minerals, and their functions in biological systems.

CHONPS

An acronym representing the six most important elements for life: Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O), Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Sulfur (S).

Inorganic Compounds

Compounds that do not contain carbon or are not primarily composed of carbon, constituting a significant portion of living organisms.

Organic Compounds

Compounds that contain carbon and hydrogen, making up 98% of living organisms.

Hydrogen Bonds

Weak attractions between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to a more electronegative atom and another electronegative atom.

Specific Heat Capacity

The amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a unit mass of a substance by one degree Celsius.

Minerals

Elements that are essential for various biological processes but cannot be produced by the body itself.

Sodium (Na+)

An important cation in bodily fluids responsible for nerve impulse transmission and osmotic balance, commonly found in table salt.

Calcium (Ca)

A mineral crucial for blood clotting, bone strength, and muscle contraction.

Phosphorus (P)

A key component of ATP, DNA, and RNA; vital for energy transfers and bone health.

Iron (Fe)

An essential component of hemoglobin, necessary for transporting oxygen in the blood.

Iodine (I)

A critical mineral for thyroid hormone production; deficiency can lead to goiter.