Introduction to Biochemistry: Macromolecules

Questions and Answers

What branch of science studies living things?

Biology

What is the study of the chemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms?

Biochemistry

Life's origin may be explained __________.

chemically

What type of bond forms between atoms that share electrons?

Covalent Bonds Signup and view all the answers

What type of molecule results when two atoms with different electronegativities bond?

Polar Molecule Signup and view all the answers

Ionic bonds form when electrons are shared between atoms.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are positively charged ions called?

Cations Signup and view all the answers

What are negatively charged ions called?

Anions Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their definitions:

Electrolytes = Substances that release ions when dissolved in water Hydrophilic = Molecules that attract water Hydrophobic = Molecules that repel water Amphipathic = Molecules that have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties Signup and view all the answers

Which type of reaction involves bonding reactants to produce a new molecule?

Synthesis Reaction Signup and view all the answers

What scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution?

pH Scale Signup and view all the answers

What type of molecules do not contain both carbon and hydrogen?

Inorganic chemicals Signup and view all the answers

The simplest organic molecule is __________.

CH4 Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Understanding Biochemistry

Biochemistry bridges chemistry and biology, enhancing comprehension of biological systems.
Molecules' behavior is integral to biological functions, influencing cellular processes and interactions.

Introduction to Key Concepts

Life's origins can be explained through chemical processes stemming from the Big Bang, leading to the formation of essential elements and gases like water and carbon dioxide.
Chemical reactions are foundational in creating monomers and biomolecules from simple precursors.

Types of Bonds in Biochemistry

Covalent Bonds:
- Form through electron sharing; single covalent bonds share one pair of electrons, while double bonds share two pairs, resulting in rigidity.
Polar vs. Nonpolar Molecules:
- Polar molecules form between atoms with differing electronegativities; nonpolar molecules consist of atoms with similar electronegativities.
Ionic Bonds:
- Created by the complete transfer of electrons, leading to ion formation.

Ionization and Charged Particles

Ionization:
- Occurs when ionic bonds dissolve in solvents, producing cations (positive ions) and anions (negative ions).
Electrolytes:
- Substances like salts and acids that release ions in solution, allowing electrical conductivity.

Hydrogen Bonding

Hydrogen Bonds:
- Weaker bonds formed between hydrogen and electronegative atoms (oxygen/nitrogen); easily disrupted, allowing for dynamic interactions.
Van der Waals Forces:
- Weak attractions that occur between polar molecules, facilitating close interactions.

Chemical Reactions

Synthesis Reactions:
- Combine reactants to produce new molecules (e.g., S + O₂ → SO₂).
Decomposition Reactions:
- Break down substances, releasing multiple products (e.g., 2H₂O₂ → 2H₂O + O₂).
Exchange Reactions:
- Reactants trade components, creating product combinations (e.g., AB + XY ⇄ AX + BY).
Catalysts:
- Speed up reactions without changing, with enzymes serving as biological catalysts.

Solutions in Biochemistry

Hydrophilic Molecules:
- Attract water (e.g., salts, sugars).
Hydrophobic Molecules:
- Repel water (e.g., benzene).
Amphipathic Molecules:
- Possess both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties (e.g., phospholipids).

Acidity, Alkalinity, and the pH Scale

Acidic Solution:
- Releases excess hydrogen ions (H⁺) when dissolved in water.
Basic Solution:
- Releases excess hydroxyl ions (OH⁻).
pH Scale:
- Measures the acidity/alkalinity of solutions based on ion concentrations; crucial for biochemical reactions.

The Role of Carbon in Chemistry

Inorganic Chemicals:
- Lack both carbon and hydrogen (e.g., NaCl, CO₂).
Organic Chemicals:
- Comprised of carbon frameworks bonded with other atoms; range from simple (e.g., CH₄) to complex (e.g., large biomolecules).

Importance of Carbon

Carbon is the essential building block of life, forming the backbone for a diverse range of organic molecules critical for biological functions.

Description

This quiz covers the foundational concepts of biochemistry, focusing on the macromolecules essential for life. You'll explore how chemistry informs our understanding of biological systems and the behavior of these vital molecules. Test your knowledge of the major macromolecules and their significance in living organisms.