Biochemistry

A building block of all matter, living and non-living.

One or two letters representing an element.

Smallest unit of an element, retaining its properties.

Protons, neutrons, and electrons; the parts of an atom.

An atom with a positive or negative charge.

Two or more atoms bonded together.

Attraction between oppositely charged ions.

Ionic compound that forms ions in solution.

Elderly individuals are more prone to dehydration due to decreased thirst sensation and changes in hormone regulation.

When dehydrated, start replacing fluids even before feeling thirsty to prevent further fluid loss.

Water movement across cell membranes is driven by the concentration of solutes, mainly sodium and chloride ions.

The primary factor determining body fluid volume is the amount of sodium and chloride lost in urine.

Hormones like angiotensin II, aldosterone, and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) regulate fluid volume by controlling salt and water reabsorption in the kidneys.

These hormones promote sodium and chloride reabsorption, conserving fluid volume during dehydration.

Released by the heart when blood volume increases, ANP promotes excretion of sodium and water, reducing blood volume.

Increased blood volume slows renin release, reducing angiotensin II production and promoting fluid excretion.

For ions with a single charge (Na+, K+, HCO3-), mEq/liter is equal to mmol/liter. For ions with multiple charges (Ca2+, HPO42-), mEq/liter is twice the mmol/liter.

Blood plasma contains many protein anions, while interstitial fluid has very few. This difference in protein concentration causes blood colloid osmotic pressure.

Blood colloid osmotic pressure, caused by the protein concentration difference between blood plasma and interstitial fluid, helps regulate fluid movement between blood vessels and tissues.

Extracellular fluid: high Na+, high Cl-. Intracellular fluid: high K+, high proteins and phosphates.

These pumps actively transport Na+ out of cells and K+ into cells, maintaining the high intracellular concentration of K+ and high extracellular concentration of Na+.

Na+ is the most abundant ion in extracellular fluid, playing a vital role in fluid and electrolyte balance. It accounts for almost half of the osmolarity of extracellular fluid.

Aldosterone increases Na+ reabsorption. Low Na+ (hyponatremia) stops ADH release. High Na+ (hypernatremia) leads to ANP increasing Na+ excretion.

Hyponatremia: low blood sodium level. Hypernatremia: high blood sodium level.

When checking the odor of a substance, never inhale deeply over the container. Instead, gently waft the vapors towards your nose with your hand.

Never pour inorganic or organic liquids or solids into sinks. Use designated waste containers to prevent contamination and environmental harm.

Materials like paper, plastics, and corks can be safely disposed of in regular trash cans.

Broken glassware should be placed in a designated container to prevent injuries.

Organic and inorganic solids, including any that are not turned in, should be disposed of in containers designated for each type of waste.

Halogenated and non-halogenated solvents should be disposed of in designated containers for each type.

Strong acids and bases should be neutralized with water before being poured down the drain.

Heavy metals like mercury and chromium are highly toxic and require disposal in specifically designated waste containers.

Never perform any experiment without your instructor's approval. It's dangerous and can lead to accidents.

Always have a lab instructor or supervisor present while working in the lab.

Never eat or drink in the lab. Chemicals could contaminate your food or drinks.

Always wear closed-toe shoes in the lab. Protect yourself from spills and broken glass.

Wear a lab gown or apron to protect your clothes from spills.

If you have long hair, tie it back especially when working with a burner.

Immediately report any injury, even minor ones, to your lab instructor.

These injuries should be reported to the instructor immediately. Seek first aid if needed.

A dangerous phenomenon occurring when a Bunsen burner flame burns the base due to excessive air intake. It releases poisonous gases and can cause severe burns.

Ensure the burner's air holes are not fully open. Adjust the gas regulator slowly while holding a lit match near the burner to ignite the flame safely.

Striking back releases poisonous gases and can cause severe burns because the flame burns the base of the burner, which is in direct contact with the gas supply.

Use a stirring rod to guide the liquid from one container to another, touching the inside wall of the receiving vessel. This prevents splashing and ensures accurate transfer.

A stirring rod acts as a guide during liquid transfer, preventing splashing and directing the liquid flow to the desired container.

Always follow proper laboratory procedures and wear protective gear to ensure a safe working environment.

Mastering basic techniques like transferring liquids and using a Bunsen burner is essential for conducting experiments safely and effectively.

Knowing the basic operation and function of equipment like the Bunsen burner, pipette, and stirring rod is vital for laboratory success.