Basic Chemistry Flashcards

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to basic chemistry, essential for understanding the chemical principles governing biological systems.

Kinetic Energy

The energy of motion that causes atoms to move constantly, influencing particle collisions.

Exchange Reaction

A chemical reaction where parts of one molecule are exchanged with another, typically shown as AB + C ⇌ AC + B.

Reversibility

The property of most chemical reactions indicating that they can proceed in both forward and reverse directions.

Catalysts

Substances that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.

Hydrolysis

A reaction involving the addition of water to break down larger molecules into their monomers.

Organic Compounds

Compounds that contain carbon; essential organic compounds include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

pH Scale

A scale used to measure the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, ranging from 0 (acidic) to 14 (basic), with 7 being neutral.

Monosaccharides

Simple sugars that serve as the building blocks for more complex carbohydrates.

Triglycerides

A type of lipids formed from glycerol and three fatty acids, serving as a major source of stored energy.

Nucleotides

Building blocks of nucleic acids, consisting of a nitrogen-containing base, a sugar, and a phosphate group.

Amino Acids

Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins, each differing in their R-group.

Enzymes

Proteins that act as biological catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions by lowering activation energy.

Hydrogen Bonds

Weak bonds that form between molecules, significant for the structure and stability of proteins and nucleic acids.

Acids

Substances that release hydrogen ions in solution; characterized by a sour taste and the ability to dissolve metals.

Bases

Substances that accept hydrogen ions; characterized by a slippery feel and a bitter taste.

Biochemical Reactions

Reactions that involve the formation and breaking of chemical bonds to create and break down molecules.