Biology I - Introduction to Biomolecules

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to biomolecules, chemical bonds, and blood groups as outlined in the Biology I lecture for the English Medical Program.

Atom

The basic particle of chemical elements, consisting of a nucleus of protons and neutrons, with electrons bound to it.

Isotopes

Atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Covalent Bond

A chemical bond formed when atoms share electrons.

Ionic Bond

A bond formed from the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions.

Hydrophilic Molecules

Molecules that create hydrogen bonds and interact with water.

Hydrophobic Molecules

Molecules that do not create hydrogen bonds and avoid water.

Van der Waals Forces

The weakest type of chemical bond, dependent on the distance between atoms.

Monomer

A small molecule that can join together with other small molecules to form larger structures.

Polymer

A large molecule comprised of many monomers linked together.

Peptide Bond

A covalent bond that links two amino acids by removing a water molecule.

Nucleotide

The basic building block of nucleic acids, consisting of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

Phosphodiester Bond

The covalent bond that connects the sugar of one nucleotide to the phosphate group of another.

Blood Group Antigens

Molecules on the surface of erythrocytes that determine blood type, such as A, B, AB, and O.

ABO Blood Group System

A classification system for blood based on the presence or absence of antigens on the surface of red blood cells.

Rh Factor

A specific antigen that can be present (positive) or absent (negative) on the surface of red blood cells.

Insulin

A hormone made by the pancreas that helps glucose enter cells to be used for energy.

Diabetes

A disease where the body cannot produce or use insulin effectively, resulting in high blood sugar.

Hydrogen Bond

A weak bond that occurs between a hydrogen atom and a highly electronegative atom.

Optimal Distance for Covalent Interactions

The specific distance at which atoms attract each other while avoiding repulsion.

Condensation Reaction

A reaction in which monomers bind to form polymers, releasing water.

Hydrolysis Reaction

A reaction in which water is added to break down polymers into monomers.