Unit 1: The Chemistry of Life

KEY CONCEPTS:

• Introduction to the Chemistry of Life

  • Atoms and Molecules

  • Chemical Bonds

  • Water and Life

• Macromolecules

  • Carbohydrates

  • Lipids

  • Proteins

  • Nucleic Acids

• Enzymes

  • Enzyme Structure and Function

  • Enzyme Regulation

• Cell Membranes

  • Membrane Structure

  • Membrane Transport

• Cellular Energy

  • ATP and Energy

  • Cellular Respiration

  • Photosynthesis

• Metabolism

  • Anabolic and Catabolic Reactions

  • Metabolic Pathways

• Cell Communication

  • Signaling Molecules

  • Signal Transduction Pathways

  • Cellular Response to Signals

A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ny5pDcmDAOA

(review video)

VIDEO NOTES:

Atoms are the building blocks of all matter and that molecules are formed when atoms combine through chemical bonds. Chemical bonds can be covalent, ionic, or hydrogen bonds. Water is a unique molecule that plays a crucial role in life due to its polarity and ability to form hydrogen bonds.

Macromolecules are large molecules made up of smaller subunits. Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids are the four main types of macromolecules. Carbohydrates are important for energy storage and structure, while lipids are important for energy storage and cell membrane construction. Proteins have many functions, including catalyzing reactions, transporting molecules, and providing structural support. Nucleic acids store and transmit genetic information.

Enzymes are proteins that catalyze chemical reactions in the body. They have specific shapes that allow them to bind to specific substrates and speed up the reaction. Enzymes can be regulated by factors such as inhibitors and activators.

Cell membranes are composed of phospholipids and proteins and are selectively permeable. Cellular energy is produced through processes such as cellular respiration and photosynthesis. Metabolism refers to all the chemical reactions that occur in the body, including anabolic and catabolic reactions. Anabolic reactions build larger molecules from smaller ones, while catabolic reactions break down larger molecules into smaller ones.

Cell communication occurs through signaling molecules and signal transduction pathways. The cellular response to signals can be varied and can include changes in gene expression, protein activity, and cell behavior. Overall, this unit has provided me with a solid foundation in the chemistry of life and how it relates to the functioning of cells and organisms.