Biology 101: A Brief Introduction to Organic Chemistry

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms in organic chemistry relevant to the understanding of biological molecules and their functions.

Carbon

The element that is the backbone of life, forming the basis of most biological molecules.

Organic Compounds

Compounds that contain carbon; their study is called Organic Chemistry.

Abiotic Synthesis

The formation of organic compounds from non-living matter, suggested to have occurred near volcanoes.

Hydrocarbons

Organic molecules consisting of only carbon and hydrogen, which are major components of petroleum.

Isomers

Compounds with the same molecular formula but different structures and properties.

Enantiomers

Isomers that are mirror images of each other, affecting biological activity.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

An important organic phosphate that stores energy for cellular processes.

Functional Groups

Chemical groups attached to the carbon skeleton of organic molecules, influencing their reactivity and properties.

Valence Electrons

Electrons in the outer shell of an atom that determine how many covalent bonds an atom can form.

Chemical Groups

Distinctive groups in organic molecules that influence their chemical reactions and properties.