Unit 5: Chemistry of Life

Science 7

polar molecule

contains a region of partial positive and partial negative charge caused by an unequal “pull” on shared electrons

electronegativity

the unequal “pull” on shared electrons

hydrogen bond

formed from opposite charges of polar negativity → relatively weak, but strong when there are many bonds

high specific heat

water resists changes in temperature

cohesion

water molecules can stick together, creating suface tension

adhesion

water molecules can stick to other things

solvent

ability to dissolve other substances

acid

base

ph

digestive system

mechanical digestion

the physical breakdown of large food particles into smaller ones without altering their chemical structure

chemical digestion

esophagus

muscular tube that pushes food from the pharynx to the stomach

pharynx

splits into the esophagus and the trachea (windpipe)

epiglottis

prevents food from going into the trachea

peristalsis

Peristalsis is a muscular contraction that moves food through the digestive system. It occurs in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, allowing for the progression of food along the digestive tract.

pancreas

produces enzymes to help digest food

villi

Tiny, finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase the surface area for absorption of nutrients.

liver

produces bile, which helps break down fats

gallbladder

stores bile

chemical reaction

A process that involves the transformation of one set of chemical substances into another, involving the breaking and forming of chemical bonds.

reactant

A substance that takes part in and undergoes change during a reaction.

product

activation energy

endothermic reaction

exothermic reaction

catalyst

enzyme

substrate

denature

biomolecule

polymer

monomer

carbohydrate

monosaccharide

lipid

fatty acid

saturated fat

unsaturated fat

protein

amino acid

nucleic acid

nucleotide