BIO chemistry Flashcards
differentiate between elements and molecules…
Element- A substance that cannot be broken down by any chemical reaction.
Molecule- Two or more atoms joined together.
Atomic number represents…
The amount of protons within the nucleus of an atom within an element.
Protons are…
Positively charged
Electrons are…
Negatively charged
Differentiate between ions, cations and anions.
Ions- Charged atoms. Occur when an atom gains or loses an electron.
Anions- Negatively charged ions. Occur when a proton is lost.
Cations- Positively charged ions. Occur when an electron is lost, or a proton is gained.
Define the term isotope.
In an element, all atoms will contain the same number of protons. However, if they contain differing amounts of neutrons, they are known as isotopes.
Provide the chemical symbol for potassium.
K
Provide the chemical symbol for iron.
Fe
Provide the chemical symbol for sodium.
Na
Provide the chemical symbols for hydrogen and Carbon.
H & C
Provide the chemical symbol for Calcium.
Ca
What is the role of iron within the human body?
. Essential for creating haemoglobin, the protein that transports oxygen within the red blood cells.
. Supports healthy nails, skin and hair.
What is the role of Hydrogen and Carbon within the body?
Hydrogen is responsible for hydration, lubrication of joints and removal of waste and toxins.
Carbon is the main energy source for the body, derived from carbohydrates. It is also the building block for many other macromolecules such as lipids and proteins.
What may potassium be used for?
Potassium is an electrolyte that can be used to control intracellular fluid levels in body cells, muscle contractions, nerve signals and when dissolved, will produce positively charged ions. These ions are used as ‘electricity’ for the body.
What may sodium be used for?
Sodium is an electrolyte that is used for maintaining extracellular fluid levels in body cells. This can also be used for control of blood pressure and volume, as well as muscle contraction and nerve impulses. Sodium is derived from sodium chloride/salt.
What is the main function of calcium?
Calcium is the building block for bones, and can be used for protein regulation as well as muscle contraction. it is the most abundant mineral within the human body.
Give an example of a contractile protein.
Myosin
Give an example of a transport protein.
Haemoglobin
Name three lipids.
Fatty acids, oils and cholesterol.
What is the human blood PH level?
7.4 (basic)
Briefly explain the purpose of buffers…
Buffers are solutions that can resist changes in PH levels, and are important for maintaining H+ ion concentrations in biological systems.
How do buffers functions?
If there are too many H+ ions, a buffer will absorb some of them bringing the PH back up. if there are too little H+ ions, the buffer will donate some of its H+ ions in order to reduce the PH.
What is a H+ ion?
It is a hydrogen atom that has a positive charge, meaning it has lost its single electron. It is simply a proton instead.
What occurs when acidic substances such as lemon juice, are added to water?
The acidic substance readily gives up its H+ (positively charged hydrogen atoms), so that the water molecules combine with the H+. This causes the formation of H3O+, and will result in a low PH/acidic substance.
