The Chemistry of Life - Biochemistry

Flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on the chemistry of life and biochemistry.

What is biochemistry?

The study of structure, composition, and chemical reactions that occur in living things.

Define matter.

Anything that has mass and takes up space.

What are elements?

Pure substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances and are made of only one type of atom.

What is a molecule?

Two or more atoms chemically bonded together.

What is a compound?

A substance made up of two or more different elements chemically combined in a specific ratio.

What are the basic subatomic particles?

Protons, neutrons, and electrons.

What is the difference between ionic and covalent bonds?

Ionic bonds form when one atom transfers electrons to another, while covalent bonds form when two atoms share electrons.

What happens when chemical bonds form?

Energy is released and the system becomes more stable.

What is a reactant?

A substance that starts a chemical reaction.

What is a product?

A substance that is formed as a result of a chemical reaction.

Define endothermic reaction.

A chemical reaction that absorbs heat, resulting in a drop in temperature.

Define exothermic reaction.

A chemical reaction that releases heat, resulting in an increase in temperature.

What are the main elements found in living organisms?

Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O), Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Sulfur (S).

What is energy in terms of chemical reactions?

Energy changes occur as bonds are formed or broken during chemical reactions.

Give an example of an exergonic reaction.

Cellular respiration releases energy for cells.

Give an example of an endergonic reaction.

Photosynthesis, which absorbs energy from sunlight.