A&P chapter 2

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the chemical basis of life, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, biological molecules, and energy processes.

Atom

The basic unit of a chemical element, composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Neutron

A subatomic particle with no electrical charge found in the nucleus of an atom.

Proton

A positively charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

Electron

A negatively charged subatomic particle that orbits the nucleus of an atom.

Chemical Bond

An attraction between atoms that allows the formation of chemical compounds; can be ionic or covalent.

Ionic Bond

A type of chemical bond that forms when electrons are transferred from one atom to another.

Covalent Bond

A type of chemical bond formed when two or more atoms share electron pairs.

Electronegativity

The ability of an atom’s nucleus to attract electrons.

Anion

A negatively charged ion formed by the gain of electrons.

Cation

A positively charged ion formed by the loss of electrons.

Hydrogen Bond

A weak bond between two molecules resulting from an electrostatic attraction between a proton in one molecule and an electronegative atom in the other.

Solubility

The ability of one substance to dissolve in another.

Electrolyte

A substance that dissociates into ions in solution and can conduct electricity.

pH Scale

A scale used to specify the acidity or basicity of an aqueous solution; ranges from 0 to 14.

Acid

A substance that donates protons (H+) in a solution.

Base

A substance that accepts protons or donates hydroxide ions (OH-) in a solution.

Catabolism

The metabolic process of breaking down larger molecules into smaller units, releasing energy.

Anabolism

The metabolic process of building larger molecules from smaller units, requiring energy.

Carbohydrates

Organic molecules made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, used as energy sources.

Lipids

A diverse group of hydrophobic molecules, including fats, oils, and phospholipids, used for energy storage and building cell membranes.

Protein

Large biomolecules made up of amino acids, essential for the growth and maintenance of tissues.

Nucleic Acid

Biomolecules that store and transmit genetic information; includes DNA and RNA.

Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)

The energy currency of the cell that powers many cellular processes.