BMS1011 Wk2L1 Part C flashcards

Overview of Workshop Setup

• Importance of Teaching Associates (TAs)

  • Predominantly PhD students in Chemistry or Biochemistry.

  • Available to help students with questions.

• Use of Scratch Cards for Questions

  • Students are handed out scratch cards to answer five questions.

  • Correct answers verified by TAs for prizes.

Key Chemistry Concepts Discussed

• Question 1: Atomic Structure of Nitrogen

  • Atomic number of nitrogen is 7.

  • Clarification that nitrogen has 7 protons in its nucleus, not 7 neutrons as sometimes confused.

• Question 2: Polar Covalent Bonds

  • Defined as bonds formed when bonded atoms differ in electronegativity.

  • Electronegativity determines how strongly an atom can attract electrons.

  • A difference greater than 1.9 between atoms indicates a polar covalent bond.

• Question 3: Weak Acid Strength

  • The strength of a weak acid is expressed by its pKa value.

  • pH relates to the concentration of hydronium ions but does not measure the strength of the acid.

VSEPR Model and Molecular Geometry

• Question 4: Predicting Bond Angles

  • None of the structures given have bond angles of exactly 20 degrees, yet some can approximate it with trigonal planar geometry.

  • Structures with two single bonds and a double bond will exhibit bond angles of about 120 degrees, typical for trigonal planar arrangements (Structure 1 and 2).

Le Chatelier's Principle and Chemical Equilibrium

• Question 5: Chemical Reactions at Equilibrium

  • Importance of understanding shifts in chemical equilibrium based on various conditions.

  • Adding starting compounds will push equilibrium towards the product side.

Case Study Introduction: Mary Emergency Scenario

• Description of a patient, Mary, who faces health complications and the diagnosis process involved.

  • Case involves blood tests, EKG, and other assessments by Doctor Rosen.

  • Mention of Mary’s current medication and its potential impacts on her health.

Blood Test Analysis

• Identification of abnormal results in blood tests:

  • pH at 7.31, which is below the normal range.

  • Elevated CO2 concentrations contributing to acid-base imbalance.

• Relationship of abnormalities to carbon dioxide interactions in the blood.

Key Acid-Base Chemistry Concepts

1. Dissociation Reactions:

   • Reaction between CO2 and H2O forms carbonic acid, which dissociates to influence pH levels.

2. pH Calculations:

   • pH equation using [H3O^+]: pH = -log[H3O^+].

   • Restructuring the equation for pOH.

   • Normal body pH is tightly regulated; any deviation signifies potential health issues.

3. Buffer Systems:

   • Importance of buffers in maintaining pH balance in the body; retaining bicarbonate ions can help regulate pH levels.

   • The Henderson-Hasselbalch equation is significant in quantifying pH in buffered systems based on the ratio of acid to its conjugate base.

Interactive Case Studies

• Groups worked collaboratively on case studies. Examples of tasks include:

  • Analyzing lab tests and discussing results in real-time.

  • Utilizing Google Docs to share presentations and findings simultaneously.

Summary of Medical Responses

• Various responses to Mary’s condition discussed:

  • Oxygen supplementation and nutritional support.

  • Use of bicarbonate in cases of metabolic acidosis.

  • Importance of careful monitoring by professional healthcare.

Conclusion of Workshop

• Emphasis on understanding key chemistry concepts relevant to biological systems, such as acid-base chemistry and its clinical significance.

• Encouragement to apply knowledge collaboratively in scientific discussions and case studies.