Subatomic Particles and Biomolecules

These flashcards cover key concepts related to subatomic particles, biomolecules, their structures, functions, and the processes involved in their interactions.

The basic building blocks of atoms, comprising protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Subatomic particles

Protons and neutrons are located in the nucleus of an atom.

Location of protons and neutrons

The region surrounding the nucleus of an atom where electrons are likely to be found.

Electron cloud

A positively charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus.

Proton charge

A neutrally charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus.

Neutron charge

A negatively charged subatomic particle found in the electron cloud.

Electron charge

Determined by the number of protons in its nucleus.

Identity of an element

A bond formed when one atom transfers electrons to another, typically between a metal and a nonmetal.

Ionic bond

A bond formed when two nonmetals share electrons.

Covalent bond

A type of covalent bond where electrons are shared unequally.

Polar covalent bond

A type of covalent bond where electrons are shared equally.

Nonpolar covalent bond

Sodium chloride (NaCl), commonly known as table salt.

Example of an ionic compound

Water (H2O), which has a partial positive and negative charge.

Example of polar molecule

Oxygen (O2) and methane (CH4), which share electrons equally.

Example of nonpolar molecules

A weak attraction between a positively charged hydrogen atom and a negatively charged atom in another molecule.

Hydrogen bond

The tendency of water molecules to stick to each other due to hydrogen bonds.

Cohesion

The tendency of water molecules to stick to other surfaces due to polarity.

Adhesion

The ability of water to rise in thin tubes due to cohesion and adhesion.

Capillary action

The high amount of heat needed to raise the temperature of water, which moderates climate.

Specific heat of water

Water's ability to dissolve most ionic and polar substances due to its polarity.

Universal solvent

Ice floats because it is less dense than liquid water due to hydrogen bonding.

Density of ice

The six most common elements in living organisms: Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, Oxygen, Phosphorus, Sulfur.

CHNOPS

Carbon can form four covalent bonds, allowing for a variety of complex structures.

Versatility of carbon

Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Four major biomolecule groups

Monosaccharides, which are simple sugars like glucose.

Monomer of carbohydrates

Glycerol and fatty acids make up lipids.

Monomer of lipids

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.

Monomer of proteins

Nucleotides are the building blocks of nucleic acids.

Monomer of nucleic acids

Provide quick energy and serve structural roles, e.g., glucose and cellulose.

Function of carbohydrates

Serve as long-term energy storage, insulation, and form cell membranes.

Function of lipids

Functions include acting as enzymes, providing structure, transport, and movement.

Function of proteins

Store and transmit genetic information, including DNA and RNA.

Function of nucleic acids

The process of joining monomers by removing a water molecule.

Dehydration synthesis

The process of breaking polymers into monomers by adding water.

Hydrolysis