Biology 2: Carbon, Biomolecules, and Functional Groups Overview

Why is carbon considered the basis of life?

Carbon has 4 valence electrons, allowing it to form four stable covalent bonds with various atoms.

What are the CHNOPS elements that carbon bonds with?

Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, Oxygen, Phosphorus, and Sulfur.

What is tetravalence in relation to carbon?

Tetravalence refers to carbon's ability to form four covalent bonds due to its four valence electrons.

What are straight chains in carbon skeletons?

Straight chains are carbon atoms joined end-to-end, forming flexible backbones for molecules like fats and oils.

What are branched skeletons in carbon structures?

Branched skeletons have one or more side branches, affecting how closely molecules can pack and their physical properties.

What are closed rings in carbon structures?

Closed rings are carbon atoms connected to form a stable circular structure, common in biological molecules like sugars.

What is the difference between monomers and polymers?

Monomers are single units (e.g., monosaccharides), while polymers are long chains of monomers (e.g., polysaccharides).

What is the main function of carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates provide quick energy and structural support (e.g., cell walls).

What are the monomers and polymers of lipids?

Monomers are fatty acids and glycerol; polymers include triglycerides and phospholipids.

What is the primary function of proteins?

Proteins build body structures, act as enzymes, and regulate chemical reactions.

What are the elements that make up nucleic acids?

Nucleic acids are composed of Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen, and Phosphorus.

What is the lock-and-key mechanism in molecular docking?

The lock-and-key mechanism describes how a molecule's 3D shape must match a receptor or enzyme's active site to bind.

Why doesn't oil mix with water?

Oil is nonpolar, while water is polar; therefore, they do not mix because 'like dissolves like.'

What is the role of functional groups in biomolecules?

Functional groups determine the properties and functions of biomolecules, such as polarity and acidity.

What is the property and function of the hydroxyl group (-OH)?

The hydroxyl group is polar and water-soluble, forming alcohols and helping sugars dissolve in water.

What is the property and function of the carboxyl group (-COOH)?

The carboxyl group is acidic, releasing H⁺ ions and making molecules acidic.

What is the property and function of the amino group (-NH₂)?

The amino group is basic, accepting H⁺ ions and building proteins.

How do biomolecules serve living organisms?

Biomolecules are essential organic compounds that serve as building blocks for energy, growth, repair, and genetic information storage.

What are examples of carbohydrates?

Examples include glucose, starch, cellulose, rice, bread, and fruits.

What are examples of lipids?

Examples include cooking oil, butter, avocado, and body fat.

What are examples of proteins?

Examples include meat, eggs, fish, and beans.

What are examples of nucleic acids?

Examples include DNA and RNA.

Why can proteins form complex 3D structures?

Carbon's tetravalence allows proteins to form chains, branches, and rings that fold into complex structures.

What is the significance of carbon's flexibility?

Carbon's flexibility allows for the formation of large and diverse biomolecules essential for life.

What is the main function of lipids?

Lipids store long-term energy and form cell membranes.

What is the role of enzymes in biological processes?

Enzymes act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions in the body.