IB Biology SL — 2.1 Molecular Biology

Organic Compounds

Molecules containing carbon found in living things, exceptions are carbonates and oxides of carbon.

Carbon Atom Configuration

Carbon atom with 6 electrons, 4 valence electrons, and the capacity to form four covalent bonds.

Metabolism

Totality of chemical processes in a living organism to maintain life, involving enzyme-catalyzed reactions.

Biomacromolecules

Four main groups in cells - Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Types of Reactions

Anabolism involves synthesis of complex molecules, while catabolism involves breakdown of complex molecules.