L2 - The Chemistry of Life

1. Explore the properties of living organisms and appreciate the common origins and makeup of the molecules of life. 2. Identify the elements particularly important for life, and define the properties used to describe how they interact. 3 Lecture Learning Outcomes 1. Explore the properties of living organisms and appreciate the common origins and makeup of the molecules of life. 2. Identify the elements particularly important for life, and define the properties used to describe how they interact. 3. Describe the basic structures, chemical properties, and biological functions of the building blocks of life (macromolecules): − Water, carbohydrates (sugars), lipids, nucleic acids, amino acids.

What are the properties of Life?

• Order

• Energy Processing

• Sensitivity

• Reproduction

• Growth and Development

• Regulation/homeostasis

• Adaptation

• Evolution

What is homeostasis?

A set of internal conditions maintained by living things despite a changing environment.

What is Adaptation?

A physical or behavioral feature that helps an organism better survive its environment.

What is evolution?

Adaptations and changes which occur over generations.

What are the two types of living cells?

• Prokaryotes

• Eukaryotes

Which four elements are the most commonly found in life?

• Carbon

• Oxygen

• Hydrogen

• Nitrogen

What are the benefits of carbon based molecules?

• Versatile

• Stable

• Diverse