Lecture 1 (Chris Allen) - The Chemical Context Of Life Flashcards
(8 cards)
1
Q
What is the difference between atoms and molecules
A
- An atom is the smallest unit of matter that still retains the properties of an element.
- A molecule consists of two or more atoms held together by covalent bonds.
2
Q
What is the difference between an element and a compound
A
- An element is a substance that cannot be broken down to other substances by chemical reactions.
- A compound is a substance consisting of two or more elements in a fixed ratio.
3
Q
Explain the essential elements of life
A
- Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen make up 96% of living matter.
- Most of the remaining 4% consists of calcium, phosphorous, potassium, and sulfur.
- Trace elements are those required by an organism in minute quantities e.g. iron and iodine.
4
Q
What are biologically important molecules
A
- Biologically important molecules are generally organic compounds as they are primarily made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
- The common biological macromolecules are carbohydrates (energy source), proteins (enzymes), lipids (cell membranes), and nucleic acids (information storage and transfer.
5
Q
What is the collective name for protons, neutrons and electrons
A
Subatomic particles
6
Q
What do protons and neutrons form
A
Atomic nucleus
7
Q
What are the masses of protons and neutrons measured in
A
Daltons
8
Q
Which she’ll in an atom has the highest energy level
A
Outermost she’ll
