Questions and Answers
What functional group is commonly used in cells to transfer energy from one organic molecule to another?
Phosphate
Which of the following hydrocarbons has a double bond in its carbon skeleton?
Which of the functional groups is most likely to gain a proton and become positively charged?
Amino group
What does an amino group do in biological molecules?
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The large diversity of shapes of biological molecules is possible because of the extensive presence of _____ in the molecules.
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What enables carbon-based molecules to be multibranching and three-dimensionally variable?
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Which of the following is a hydrocarbon?
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Molecules that have the same chemical formula but different shapes are called _____.
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Which molecules show an appropriate number of bonds around each carbon atom? (Select the three that apply)
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What is a functional group?
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What are some examples of biologically important functional groups?
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Study Notes
Functional Groups and Their Roles
- Phosphate groups are crucial for energy transfer in cells, particularly in the formation and usage of ATP and ADP.
- Amino groups can accept protons, rendering them positively charged and acting as bases in chemical reactions.
Hydrocarbons and Their Structures
- C2H4 features a double bond in its carbon skeleton, highlighting its classification as an unsaturated hydrocarbon.
- C3H8 exemplifies a hydrocarbon with single covalent bonds, adhering to the formula where the number of hydrogen atoms equals twice the number of carbon atoms plus two.
Carbon's Versatile Binding
- Carbon has four outer electrons, enabling it to form diverse structures, including branches and complex three-dimensional shapes.
- Carbon's tetravalency allows it to bond with various other atoms, contributing to the vast array of organic molecules.
Isomers and Molecular Structures
- Isomers are molecules with identical chemical formulas but distinct three-dimensional configurations, influencing their chemical properties.
- Functional groups influence the chemical behavior of molecules, with common types including hydroxyl, carbonyl, carboxyl, amino, sulfhydryl, and phosphate groups.
Identifying and Classifying Functional Groups
- Functional groups replace hydrogen atoms in hydrocarbons, with specific arrangements conferring distinct chemical properties.
- Alcohol (-OH) is polar and may act as a weak acid, while carboxylic acids can donate protons (acids).
- Thiols (-SH) can form disulfide bonds, and amines (-NH2) serve as basic functional groups.
- Phosphate groups, essential for ATP structure, provide a negative charge, impacting molecular interactions.
Importance in Biological Systems
- The ability of carbon to form chains, rings, and diverse bonding patterns makes it foundational to organic chemistry and essential for all living organisms.
- Understanding the behavior of functional groups helps in predicting the reactivity and interaction of biological molecules.
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Description
Test your knowledge with these flashcards covering key concepts from Chapter 4 of Biology. Each card presents a term along with its definition, helping you reinforce your understanding of important biological functions and structures. Perfect for students preparing for exams or wanting to master the material!
