A1.1.5 Solvent properties of water as a medium for metabolism and transport Flashcards
What is metabolism?
The sum of all chemical reactions occurring in an organism to maintain life, including catabolism (breaking down molecules) and anabolism (building molecules).
What type of bond exists between the hydrogen and oxygen atoms in a water molecule?
Polar covalent bond, where electrons are unequally shared.
What is the molecular structure of water?
Each water molecule consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom.
How does water act as a solvent in cells?
Water dissolves ions and polar molecules, creating an aqueous environment that allows enzymes, substrates, and other molecules to interact.
What is condensation in biochemical terms?
A reaction that involves the building up of molecules with the removal of water.
What is viscosity, and how does water’s viscosity compare to other liquids?
Viscosity is a liquid’s resistance to flow. Water has a low viscosity compared to other liquids, allowing it to flow easily.
Why is water’s low viscosity advantageous for aquatic organisms?
It allows water to flow easily, but it is still more viscous than air, meaning aquatic organisms expend more energy moving through water than terrestrial organisms do in air.
Why is water called the “cradle of life”?
Water creates an environment where life-sustaining processes can occur, allowing molecules to move, interact, and undergo chemical reactions.
How does water provide buoyancy to aquatic organisms?
Water’s density provides buoyancy, reducing the energy needed for organisms to float.
What role does water play in transport within organisms?
Water facilitates the transport of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products, as seen in blood circulation and nutrient transport in plants.
What is hydrolysis?
A biochemical reaction that involves the breaking down of molecules with the addition of water.
