Basic Chemistry: Understanding the Basics for Anatomy and Physiology
In order to understand Biology, you need to understand the very basics of Chemistry. The body is mostly made out of Carbon, Oxygen, Hydrogen and Nitrogen.
Key Terms:
ATP (adenosine triphosphate): Energy released when phosphate detaches, creating ADP. Source of energy for cells Protons: positive charge in nucleus of an atom Neutrons: neutral charge in nucleus of atom Electrons: electrical charge orbiting an atom Isotopes: atoms with the same amount of protons and neutrons, but different amount of electrons Radioisotopes: Certain isotopes that degrade over time Molecule:Two or more non-metal atoms combined chemically Compound: Two or more different atoms combine together Ionic Bond: Electrons are completely taken/given away (ex. metal and non-metal) Covalent Bond: Electrons are shared together Hydrogen Bond: Bonds formed when hydrogen combines with either nitrogen or oxygen. They are very weak bonds. Synthesis reactions: a+b ->ab Decomposition reactions: ab -> a+b Hydrolysis: Decomposition reaction involving water Dehydration Synthesis: Synthesis reaction involving water Exchange reactions: ab+cd -> ad+cb Inorganic compound: compounds without carbon Organic Compound: compounds with carbon Carbohydrates: Sugars containing carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (ex. glucose) Lipids: large and diverse group of organic compounds including triglycerides (fats), Phospholipids, and steroids Proteins: Contains carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. Single unit at molecular level is an amino acid. Function for repair and basic cell function Enzymes: Biological catalysts Catalyst: Speeds up chemical reaction Nucleic Acids:Make up genes (used to make proteins). Single unit is called nucleotides |
Water Properties:
Acid Properties: High in hydrogen ions, pH 0-7, tastes sour Base Properties: High in hydroxide ions, pH 7-14, tastes bitter Salt Properties: neutralization reaction with acid and base (acid + base->salt +water) Remember, understanding water, acids, and bases is vital for success in any Biology Course |