TChem_Chapter_12__Putting_it_all_Together

What are the components of a chemical reaction?

Reactants, Catalysts, Products.

What happens during the transition state of a chemical reaction?

It corresponds to a high energy peak and denotes the moment change is happening.

Define oxidation in terms of electron transfer.

Oxidation is the process where an atom loses electrons and becomes more positive.

What distinguishes a nucleophile from an electrophile?

A nucleophile is electron rich and willing to donate an electron pair, while an electrophile is electron deficient and willing to accept an electron pair.

What is the product of ethanol oxidation in the liver?

Oxidized to ethanal (acetaldehyde) and then to acetic acid.

Hydrolysis in a chemical context.

Is the 'water splitting' reaction that begins the decomposition process, involving the breakdown of molecules by water and enzymes.

What is the role of formaldehyde in the embalming process?

As an electrophile, reacts with amines (nucleophiles) to form a methylene bridge, linking decomposing tisues.

What occurs during the oxidation of methanol?

Methanol is oxidized to methanal (formaldehyde), which is toxic when metabolized.

What is the significance of transition states in organic reactions?

They represent intermediate compounds that are quickly formed and consumed and indicate less stable high-energy conditions.

How do nucleophiles react during the embalming process?

Nucleophiles, such as amines, react with aldehydes to form stable products during embalming.