BIOCHEMISTRY

Matter

Anything that has mass and occupies space.

Atom

The smallest functional unit of matter that forms all chemical substances.

Element

One type of atom as represented on the periodic table.

Molecule

A group of two or more atoms bonded together, such as O2 or H2O.

Compound

A substance made up of two or more different elements, such as H2O.

Protons

Positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom, determining the atomic number.

Neutrons

Neutral particles found in the nucleus of an atom, contributing to the atomic weight.

Electrons

Negatively charged particles found in orbitals around the nucleus, responsible for determining bonding.

s orbitals

Spherical-shaped orbitals where electrons can be found.

p orbitals

Propeller or dumbbell-shaped orbitals where electrons can be found.

Each orbital can hold only 2 electrons

A rule stating that each orbital can accommodate a maximum of two electrons.