IB Biology SL — 2.1 Molecular Biology
Definition: Molecules containing carbon found in living things
Exceptions: Carbonates and oxides of carbon
Carbon's role: Forms basis of organic life due to ability to form four covalent bonds
Metabolism: Totality of chemical processes in living organisms to maintain life
Enzyme-catalyzed reactions: Web of reactions within a cell or organism
Molecular biology: Explains biological processes using chemical substances
Four main groups in cells: Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids
Composition: Carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids have recurring subunits
Lipids: Do not have repeating monomers, may contain smaller subunits
Anabolism: Synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones
Involves condensation reactions (water produced)
Example: Photosynthesis
Catabolism: Breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones
Involves hydrolysis reactions (water consumed)
Example: Cellular respiration
Definition: Organic molecules were synthesized only by living systems
Vital force: The idea that living organisms have a special life force that sets them apart from non-living things. It suggests that this unique energy makes living beings distinct from inanimate objects.
Definition: Molecules containing carbon found in living things
Exceptions: Carbonates and oxides of carbon
Carbon's role: Forms basis of organic life due to ability to form four covalent bonds
Metabolism: Totality of chemical processes in living organisms to maintain life
Enzyme-catalyzed reactions: Web of reactions within a cell or organism
Molecular biology: Explains biological processes using chemical substances
Four main groups in cells: Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids
Composition: Carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids have recurring subunits
Lipids: Do not have repeating monomers, may contain smaller subunits
Anabolism: Synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones
Involves condensation reactions (water produced)
Example: Photosynthesis
Catabolism: Breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones
Involves hydrolysis reactions (water consumed)
Example: Cellular respiration
Definition: Organic molecules were synthesized only by living systems
Vital force: The idea that living organisms have a special life force that sets them apart from non-living things. It suggests that this unique energy makes living beings distinct from inanimate objects.
