1. chemistry of plants Flashcards
What are the 6 atoms all living things are made of?
carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur
What is the main component of plants?
cellulose
carbohydrates role in a cell
serving as energy sources, providing structural support, facilitating cell recognition and signaling, regulating biological processes, and aiding in water retention
type of sugar transported
sucrose, which is efficient for long-distance transport due to its non-reducing nature and osmotic properties. Other sugars like glucose and fructose play roles in local energy use and can be converted for transport when needed.
where does table sugar come from
table sugar primarily comes from sugarcane and sugar beets. Both sources undergo processing to extract and refine sucrose, which is then used as table sugar for culinary purposes.
cellulose and structure of cell wall
cellulose is a key component of plant cell walls, providing strength and structure. The cell wall consists of the primary cell wall, middle lamella, and secondary cell wall, each contributing to the overall function and integrity of plant cells
pectin uses
complex polysaccharide found in the cell walls of plants, particularly in the primary cell walls and in the middle lamella that binds cells together
food industry, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, industrial processes, nutraceuticals, and biotechnology
where are lipids in the plant
cell membranes, the cuticle, storage tissues, and membrane-bound organelles
Difference of a fat and an oil
(solid vs. liquid), chemical structure (saturated vs. unsaturated fatty acids), sources (animal vs. plant)
Cell membrane structure and why important?
a complex structure composed of a phospholipid bilayer, proteins, carbohydrates, and cholesterol. It is essential for maintaining cellular integrity, regulating transport, facilitating communication, and supporting homeostasis. Its selective permeability and dynamic nature are crucial for the survival and functioning of the cell.
What is the plant cuticle and why important?
vital protective layer that plays a crucial role in water retention, protection against environmental stresses, and mechanical injury. It contributes to the overall health and survival of the plant, influencing its physiological processes and interactions with the environment. By balancing water conservation with gas exchange, the cuticle supports efficient photosynthesis and helps plants thrive in diverse habitats.
where are proteins in plants
ubiquitous in plants, found in the cytoplasm, chloroplasts, cell walls, membranes, vacuoles, roots, stems, flowers, and fruits. They play vital roles in metabolism, photosynthesis, structure, transport, defense, and signaling, contributing to the overall growth and development of the plant.
genes code for proteins
transcription and translation. The sequence of nucleotides in a gene determines the sequence of amino acids in a protein, which in turn dictates the protein’s structure and function
gluten
vital protein complex found in wheat and related grains, providing elasticity and structure to dough
Importance in transport across cell membranes
essential for maintaining homeostasis, nutrient uptake, waste removal, cell communication, and volume regulation. The mechanisms of transport—both passive and active—enable cells to interact effectively with their environment, ensuring their survival and proper functioning
