Biology Chapter 2: Chemical Basis of Life

The study of the chemical substances and processes that occur in living organisms.

Chemical compounds found in living organisms that contain carbon.

Chemical compounds found in living organisms that do not contain carbon.

The basic building blocks of life, primarily made up of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen.

A group of organic compounds that include sugars, starches, and cellulose. Serve as energy sources and structural components.

Large, complex molecules made up of amino acids. Play vital roles in structure, function, and regulation.

Diverse group of organic compounds that are insoluble in water. Include fats, oils, and waxes. Provide energy storage, insulation, and cell membrane structure.

Complex molecules that carry genetic information. Include DNA and RNA. Direct protein synthesis and regulate cellular processes.

The six most common elements found in living organisms, in order of abundance: Oxygen, Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Sulfur.

The process by which atoms or molecules bond together to form new substances.

A chemical bond formed by the sharing of electrons between two atoms.

A chemical bond formed by the attraction of oppositely charged ions.

A weak chemical bond that forms between a hydrogen atom and a highly electronegative atom, such as oxygen or nitrogen.

The ability of a molecule to attract electrons to itself.

The tendency of a molecule to interact with water molecules.

The tendency of a molecule to repel or not interact with water molecules.

The study of how living organisms obtain and use energy.

The sum of all the chemical reactions that occur in a living organism.

Chemical reactions that release energy.

Chemical reactions require energy.