Grade 12 Biology Unit 1 "Chemistry for Biologists"

Biochemistry

Hydrolysis Reaction

To break a molecule into smaller molecules using water, opposite of condensation.

Redox Reactions

(Oxidation-reduction reactions) Transfer of free energy from one molecule to another. Oxidation: Molecule loses electrons; Reduction: Molecule gains electrons.

Isomer

Molecules that differ in arrangement of atoms, but not in number or kind

Saturated

Organic compound with only single bonds (has all possible areas bonded with hydrogen, thus “saturated”)

Hydrophilic Interactions

Between molecules (or groups) attracted to water or other polar solvents

Hydrophobic Reactions

Mix poorly with water and other polar solvents, mix well with hydrocarbons, lipids etc

Organic Molecules

Formed by actions of living things, or have carbon backbone

Hydrocarbons

Molecules with only hydrogen and carbon atoms

Functional Groups

Condensation Reaction

Two small molecules (monomers) come together to form a large molecule with the release of water as a byproduct (also known as dehydration synthesis)

Peptide Bond

Bond between two amino acids formed through a condensation reaction.

Ester

Organic compound formed by reaction betweeen an alcohol and a carboxylic acid, resulting in the elimination of water.

Adhesion

The tendency of water molecules to stick to other surfaces or substances, often as a result of hydrogen bonding or other intermolecular forces.

Cohesion

The tendency of water molecules to stick to each other due to hydrogen bonding, contributing to surface tension.

Capillary Action

The ability of water to flow in narrow spaces against gravity, resulting from the combined effects of adhesion and cohesion.