This chapter explores the fundamental chemistry concepts relevant to the human body including:
Matter
Atoms and molecules
Chemical bonds
Inorganic and organic compounds
What molecules are present in the human body?
Define organic molecules.
What are the chemical reactions necessary for life?
Locations of molecules in living organisms?
Matter: Anything occupying space and having mass (not weight).
Mass: Amount of matter in an object, consistent regardless of gravity.
Elements: Pure substances, single type of atom.
Atoms: Smallest unit retaining properties of an element.
Molecules: Two or more atoms chemically bonded.
Compounds: Two or more different elements chemically combined.
Ionic Bonds: Formed between charged ions (cations and anions) with opposite charges. Example: Sodium chloride (NaCl).
Covalent Bonds: Formed by sharing electrons. Can be:
Nonpolar Covalent: Equal sharing of electrons.
Polar Covalent: Unequal sharing of electrons, resulting in partial charges.
Hydrogen Bonds: Non-covalent attractions between molecules, like those in water, contributing to properties such as high surface tension.
Electron Shells: Regions where electrons reside; filled shells lead to stability.
Valence Shell: Outermost shell; its stability strongly influences chemical reactivity.
**Energy Forms: **
Potential energy: Stored energy.
Kinetic energy: Energy of motion;
Chemical energy: Energy in chemical bonds.
Exergonic Reactions: Release energy.
Endergonic Reactions: Absorb energy; typically require input to occur.
Synthesis Reactions: Combine reactants to form products.
Decomposition Reactions: Break down compounds into simpler components.
Exchange Reactions: Involve both synthesis and decomposition.
Inorganic Compounds: Lack carbon and hydrogen. Examples include water, salts, acids, and bases.
Organic Compounds: Contain carbon and hydrogen, comprising key macromolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids).
Comprises 50-70% of body mass.
Functions include:
Joint lubrication.
Cushioning cells.
Temperature regulation.
Solvent for ions and nutrients.
Solution: A mixture of solute and solvent (e.g., nutrients dissolved in water).
Water as a universal solvent supports numerous biochemical processes.
Carbohydrates: Energy source, with monomers being monosaccharides.
Types: Monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides.
Lipids: Primarily energy storage molecules, including triglycerides, which provide insulation.
Proteins: Composed of amino acids; involved in structure, transport, and catalysis.
Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA responsible for genetic information and protein synthesis.
Enzymes are biological catalysts facilitating chemical reactions by lowering activation energy.
Specificity for substrates is determined by the enzyme's active site, allowing for efficient reaction processes.
Understanding of chemistry's language and concepts as they relate to the human body.
Recognition of matter organization and chemical bonding.
Awareness of essential inorganic and organic compounds in physiological processes.