Biology Basics: Atoms and Bonds

Study Notes

Fundamental Atoms in Organisms

Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen, and Nitrogen comprise 96% of all organisms.

Covalent Bonding

Covalent bonds form when atoms share electrons, leading to stable molecule formation.

Basic Atomic Structure

An atom is structured with a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, with electrons orbiting around the nucleus.

Covalent vs. Ionic Bonds

Covalent bonds involve sharing electrons, while ionic bonds arise from the electrical attraction between charged atoms.

Role of Water in Acid-Base Reactions

Water serves as both an acid and a base, facilitating proton transfer in reactions.

Theory of Chemical Evolution

This theory suggests that complex molecules originated from simpler compounds under early Earth conditions.

Nonpolar Covalent Bonds

When atoms of equal electronegativity form a covalent bond, a nonpolar covalent bond results.

pH and Proton Concentration

A solution with a pH of 5 contains 100 times more protons than a solution with a pH of 7.

Vaporization of Water

Hydrogen bonds must be broken for water to vaporize.

Chemical Equilibrium

Chemical equilibrium is characterized by equal concentrations of products and reactants, with ongoing forward and reverse reactions.

Spontaneity of Chemical Reactions

Reactions become spontaneous when the reactants have lower potential energy compared to the products.

Balancing Chemical Equations

The balanced equation for the reaction is: 1 CO2 + 6 H2O -> 1 C6H12O6 + 6 O2.

Truth of Statements about the Reaction

The equation is balanced (True).
The arrow indicates a reversible reaction (True).
Water (H2O) is a product in the reaction (True).

Description

This quiz covers fundamental concepts of biology, including the four essential atoms that compose living organisms, the nature of covalent bonds, and the basic structure of atoms. Test your understanding of atomic structure and the differences between various types of chemical bonds.