1.1 Molecules Of Life Flashcards
Describe chemical elements which make up biological molecules
oxygen carbon hydrogen nitrogen calcium phosphorous potassium sulphur sodium chlorine magnesium
What are the molecules of life?
Water, small molecules, carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids, fats, lipids.
Carbohydrates brief definition
Used by cells as respiratory substrates. They form structural components in plasma membranes and cell walls.
Lipids brief definition
Many uses, including the bilayer of plasma membranes, certain hormones, and as respiratory substrates.
Proteins brief definition
Form many cell structures. They are also important as enzymes, chemical messengers, and components of the blood.
Nucleic acids brief definition
Carry genetic code for the production of proteins. The genetic code is common to viruses and all living organisms, providing evidence for evolution.
Most common cell component?
Water
How does hydrogen bonding occur?
Has partial bonding due to uneven distribution of electrons.
What are the partial charges in hydrogen bonding?
Hydrogen = slightly positive, oxygen = slightly negative
What forces are involved in hydrogen bonding?
Electrostatic interactions which are shown as a dashed line. This is not a covalent nor ionic bond or solid lines would be represented.
Is hydrogen bonding weak or strong? Why would that be?
Weak bonding due to uneven distribution of electrons.
Are intermolecular forces strong or weak in hydrogen bonding? Why is this so?
Strong. Hydrogen bonds only form between hydrogen and the 3 most electronegative atoms. The lone pair on these atoms forms a bond with the hydrogen atom.
What are the 3 most electronegative atoms?
Nitrogen, oxygen, fluorine
Do molecules being held together by hydrogen bonds have a higher melting and boiling points compared to other similar sized molecules without hydrogen bonding?
TRUE OR FALSE?
True
Does the type of intermolecular forces acting between the molecules heavily influence the physical properties of the substance?
TRUE OR FALSE?
True
