Chemistry of Life Flashcards
(28 cards)
Atoms
Smallest building blocks of matter. Combine to form molecules.
Cells
Make up the basic unit of life.
Inorganic Substances
Do not contain carbon ( except for CO2 and carbonates.)
Inorganic Substances are required by?
Living Organisms
Water is essential to?
Plants and Animals.
In plants water is required for?
Photosynthesis.
In animals water is required for ?
An important role in nutrition.
Water in both plants and animals
Provides a fluid medium for chemical reation
Roughage
Fibre
Mineral salts
Needed for plants and animals for the maintenance of cell functions , growth and development
Sodium for animals
Regulates osmotic balance in body fluids.
Sodium in plants
Maintains water balance of cell sap and keeps cells turgid.
Potassium in plants
Plays role in opening and closing of the stomata
Potassium in animals
Plays role in transimissionof nerve impulses
Calcium in plants
Component of middle lamella of cell wall
Calcium for animals
Used to build strong bones and teeth
Phosphorus in plants
Component of cell membranes and atp
Phosphorus in animals
Used to build bones and teeth
Iron in plants
Required for chlorophyll synthesis
Iron in animals
Form part of the haemoglobin molecule
Macro elements
Elements required in higher quantities
Micro elements
Required in smaller quantities
Functions of water
1) Digestion
2)Medium 4 all chemicals reactions
3) Transport food
4) Dissolve waste`
Digestion
Break down large soluble substances into soluble substances.
