1.2 Flashcards
What is a zwitterion?
A dipolar ionic form of an amino acid that is formed by the donation of a hydrogen ion from the carboxyl group to the amino group. There is no overall charge.
What is the isoelectric point?
The pH value at which the amino acid exists as a zwitterion.
What is a condensation reaction?
Where two small molecules react together to form a larger molecule with the elimination of a small molecule such as water.
What is hydrolysis?
Involves breaking of a bond by reaction with water. Can be catalysed by acid or alkali.
What are stereoisomers?
Species with the same structural formula but with a different arrangement of the atoms in space.
What is a chiral carbon?
A carbon atom attached to four different atoms or group of atoms.
What are optical isomers?
Stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other. Also called enantiomers.
What is condensation?
A reaction in which two small molecules react together to form a larger molecule, with the elimination of a small molecule such as water.
What is a repeat unit?
The specific arrangement of atoms that occurs in the structure over and over again.
What is a biodegradable polymer?
A polymer that breaks down completely into carbon dioxide and water.
What is a degradable polymer?
A polymer that breaks down into smaller fragments when exposed to light, heat or moisture.
What is pharmacological activity?
The beneficial or adverse effects of a drug on living matter.
What is a peptide?
A compound made of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.
