Major Biological Reactions and Their Functions

Dehydration synthesis

Removal of an -OH and -H from two molecules. The -OH and -H form H2O and the two molecules are joined together. (ex; used to form complex carbs and proteins)

Hydrolysis

Water splits a molecule into two. The -OH and -H are attached to the two products. (ex; breaks down larger molecules into subunits)

Neutralization

Acid and base combined to produce salt and water.

Redox reaction

Electrons are lost from one atom and gained by the other. The electrons are moved to where they are strongly held.

Oxidation

The transfer of hydrogen and its electrons.

Reducing agent

The substance that is being oxidized in a redox reaction.

Oxidizing agent

The substance that is being reduced in a redox reaction.

Autoionization

Water spontaneously dissociates into ions.

Hydronium

The product formed when one water molecule transfers its H+ to another water molecule, resulting in H3O+.

Hydroxide

The product formed when one water molecule donates a hydrogen ion, resulting in -OH.

Acidic solution

When the concentration of hydronium is higher than the concentration of -OH.

Basic solution

When the concentration of -OH is higher than the concentration of H3O.

Buffers

Compensate for small changes in pH by absorbing or releasing H+.

Weak acids or bases

Most buffers are classified as these types of substances.

pH moderation

The process by which buffers help release or absorb -OH or H+, moderating pH in biological systems.

LEO

Loss of Electrons is Oxidation.

GER

Gain of Electrons is Reduction.