Chemistry of Life: Structure and Function

These flashcards cover key terms related to the chemistry of life, focusing on molecular structure and functional groups.

Isomers

Molecules that have the same molecular formula but different structures and properties.

Structural isomers

Isomers that differ in the arrangement of atoms.

Geometric isomers

Isomers that differ in the spatial arrangement of groups attached to a double bond.

Cis isomer

A geometric isomer where two groups are on the same side of a double bond.

Trans isomer

A geometric isomer where two groups are on opposite sides of a double bond.

Enantiomers

Molecules that are mirror images of each other, with one enantiomer being effective and the other ineffective in biological functions.

Functional groups

Chemical groups that are attached to a carbon chain and determine a molecule’s chemical properties.

Hydroxyl group

A functional group consisting of an OH group, making a molecule polar.

Sulfhydryl group

A functional group consisting of an -SH group, which is polar.

Carboxyl group

A functional group (-COOH) that is polar and acidic, causing the release of H+ ions.

Phosphate group

A functional group consisting of a phosphorus atom bonded to four oxygen atoms, which is polar and acidic.

Amino group

A functional group (-NH2) that is polar and basic, gaining H+ ions.

Methyl group

A non-polar functional group consisting of -CH3.