Biological Chemistry - Molecules and Fundamentals

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Questions and Answers

What is the smallest unit of matter that retains the chemical properties of an element?

Atom (correct)
Molecule
Polymer
Element

Which of the following describes the process of polymerization?

Breaking down polymers into monomers using heat
Linking multiple monomer units together (correct)
Dissolving substances in a solvent
Decomposing large molecules into smaller units

What type of reaction utilizes water to break down bonds in a polymer?

Hydrolysis reaction (correct)
Condensation reaction
Dehydration reaction
Polymerization reaction

What are forces that act between molecules called?

<p>Intermolecular forces (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes monomers?

<p>They are single molecules that can undergo polymerization. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is an atom?

The smallest unit of matter that retains the chemical properties of an element. It's like a tiny building block of everything around us.

What is a molecule?

Two or more atoms bonded together. These are like the tiny LEGO bricks that form everything in the world.

What is a monomer?

A single molecule that can be joined with others to create a larger molecule. They are like building blocks of larger structures.

What is polymerization?

The process of linking many monomer units together to form a large molecule. Think of it like connecting LEGO bricks to make a bigger structure.

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What is depolymerization?

The process of breaking down a polymer into its individual monomer units, like taking apart a LEGO structure into its bricks. It often involves using water.

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Study Notes

Biological Chemistry - Molecules and Fundamentals

Matter is anything that occupies space and possesses mass.
Elements are pure substances with unique chemical and physical properties; they cannot be broken down into simpler substances.
Atoms are the smallest units of matter, retaining the element's chemical properties.
Molecules are formed by two or more atoms bonded together.
Intramolecular forces attract atoms within a molecule.
Intermolecular forces attract molecules to each other.
Monomers are single molecules that can join together to form larger polymers.
Polymerization is the process of linking monomers to create polymers.
Polymers are substances composed of many monomers.
Dehydration (condensation) reactions link monomers by releasing water molecules.
Depolymerization breaks polymers down into smaller monomers.
Hydrolysis is a depolymerization process that uses water to break down bonds.