Molecular Interactions

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary related to molecular interactions, including atoms, bonds, lipids, proteins, and the properties of acids and bases.

Atom

The basic unit of matter, composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Proton

A subatomic particle with a positive charge, found in the nucleus of an atom.

Neutron

A subatomic particle that is uncharged, located in the nucleus of an atom.

Electron

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

Isotope

Variants of a chemical element that differ in the number of neutrons.

Covalent bond

A type of chemical bond where two atoms share electrons.

Ionic bond

A chemical bond formed through the electrical attraction between oppositely charged ions.

Hydrogen bond

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

Lipids

Nonpolar organic molecules that include fats, oils, and waxes.

Saturated fat

A type of fat with no double bonds in its fatty acid chains, typically solid at room temperature.

Unsaturated fat

A type of fat with one or more double bonds in its fatty acid chains, typically liquid at room temperature.

Protein

A molecule composed of amino acids that performs various functions in the body.

Amino acid

The building blocks of proteins, containing a carboxyl group, an amino group, and a side chain.

Peptide bond

The bond formed between the amine group of one amino acid and the carboxyl group of another.

pH

A measure of the hydrogen ion concentration in a solution.

Enzyme

A catalyst that speeds up a biochemical reaction without being consumed.

Ligand

A molecule that binds to a protein to form a complex.

Hydrophilic

Substances that are attracted to water and can dissolve in it.

Hydrophobic

Substances that repel water and do not dissolve in it.

Biomolecule

Organic molecules that are essential to life, including carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids.

Trans fatty acid

An unsaturated fat with trans-isomer fatty acids, often found in processed foods.

Cation

A positively charged ion that has lost one or more electrons.

Anion

A negatively charged ion that has gained one or more electrons.