Biochemistry Chapter 4-AP Bio Part 2 Flashcards
What does electron configuration determine
The kinds and number of bonds an atom will form with other atoms
The key to an atoms chemical characteristics
It’s electron configuration
What kinds of bonds does carbon form in organic molecules
Single or double covalent bonds
Each carbon atom acts as a __________________ from which a molecule can branch off
Intersection point
What imaginary shape does a carbon atom form
Tetrahedron
What gives carbon its covalent compatibility
Electron configuration
Which valences are the basis for the rules of covalent bonding in organic chemistry
Hydrogen (valence=1) oxygen (valence=2) nitrogen (valence=3) carbon (valence=4)
The building code for the architecture of organic molecules.
Carbon chains form
The skeletons of most organic molecules.
How do skeletons vary
In length, can be straight, branched, or arranged in closed rings. Some have double bonds which vary in number and location
Why is this variation in carbon skeletons important
Important source of the molecular complexity and diversity that characterize living matter.
Hydrocarbons
Organic molecules consisting of only carbon and hydrogen. Atoms of hydrogen are attached to the carbon skeleton wherever electrons are available for covalent bonding
What is the main component of petroleum
Fossil fuels
Nonpolar molecules do not _______________
Dissolve in water
What is another characteristic of hydrocarbons
They can undergo reactions that release a relatively large amount of energy
