Biochemistry: Bioenergetics and Reaction Types

This set of flashcards covers key concepts in bioenergetics and types of biochemical reactions relevant for exam preparation.

Bioenergetics

The study of the transformation of energy in living systems.

Metabolism

The sum of all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism.

Anabolism

The metabolic pathway that constructs molecules from smaller units, usually requiring energy.

Catabolism

The metabolic pathway that breaks down molecules into smaller units, releasing energy.

Thermodynamics

The branch of physics that deals with the relationships and conversions between heat and other forms of energy.

Free Energy (Gibbs Free Energy)

A thermodynamic potential that measures the maximum reversible work obtainable from a thermodynamic process.

Equilibrium Constant (K_eq)

A number that expresses the relationship between the concentrations of products and reactants at equilibrium.

Spontaneity

The tendency of a process to occur without outside intervention, often determined by the change in free energy.

ATP Hydrolysis

A highly favorable reaction where ATP is converted to ADP and inorganic phosphate, releasing energy.

Redox Reactions

Chemical reactions that involve the transfer of electrons between two species.

Oxidation

The loss of electrons from a substance.

Reduction

The gain of electrons to a substance.

NAD+

A cofactor that functions as an electron acceptor in various biological oxidations.

Flavin Cofactors

Coenzymes that can accept one or two electrons and are involved in redox reactions.

Reduction Potential (E')

A measure of the tendency of a chemical species to acquire electrons and thereby be reduced.

ΔG°'

The standard free energy change at pH 7 and 25 °C, used as a benchmark for free energy calculations.

Phosphoryl Transfer

The transfer of a phosphate group from one molecule to another, often mediated by ATP.

Hydrolysis

The reaction involving the breaking of a bond in a molecule using water, resulting in the formation of two or more products.