BIO14-18.txt PDF

Element vs Compound: Element: An element is a pure substance consisting of only one type of atom. Examples include hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon. Compound: A compound is a substance made up of two or more different types of atoms chemically bonded together. Examples include water (H₂O) and carbon dio...

Element vs Compound: Element: An element is a pure substance consisting of only one type of atom. Examples include hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon. Compound: A compound is a substance made up of two or more different types of atoms chemically bonded together. Examples include water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂). Polarity of Water: Polarity: Water is a polar molecule because it has a slightly positive charge on one end (hydrogen atoms) and a slightly negative charge on the other end (oxygen atom). This is due to the unequal sharing of electrons between the hydrogen and oxygen atoms. Properties: Because of its polarity, water can dissolve many substances, acts as a universal solvent, and can form hydrogen bonds with other molecules. This makes water essential for many biological processes. Solvent and Solute in Tea: Solvent: The solvent in a cup of tea is water, as it is the substance that dissolves other substances. Solute: The solute is the tea, which is dissolved in the water. pH and Acidity/Basicity: pH: pH is a measure of the acidity or basicity of a solution. It is defined as the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration. Acid vs Basic: On the pH scale, a pH less than 7 indicates an acidic solution, while a pH greater than 7 indicates a basic (alkaline) solution. A pH of 7 is neutral. Role of Enzymes: Role: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms without being consumed in the process. Effect on Reactions: Enzymes lower the activation energy required for a reaction to occur, thereby increasing the rate of the reaction. This is crucial for the efficient functioning of biological processes