Biochemistry- Reactions (Unit 1)

Question 1

What occurs in all chemical reactions?

Answer 1

All chemical reactions involve the breaking and formation of chemical bonds

Question 2

What is a dehydration (condensation) reaction?

Answer 2

In a dehydration (condensation) reaction, molecules are linked together by the removal of water. An H from one molecule combines with an OH from another molecule to form water; energy is absorbed during this process

Question 3

What is a hydrolysis reaction?

Answer 3

Hydrolysis is the chemical breakdown of a compound due to reaction with water. H2O is used to break two subunits of a molecule apart, providing an H to one molecule and an OH to the other. Energy is released in this process. (“Hydro” = water, “lysis” = to split)

Question 4

What occurs in redox reactions?

Answer 4

Redox reactions involve the transfer of electrons and energy between atoms. Oxidation is the loss of electrons, while reduction is the gain of electrons. Example: CH4 + 2O2 = CO2 + energy + 2H2O (both oxidation and reduction).

Question 5

What is a neutralization reaction?

Answer 5

In a neutralization reaction, an acid and a base react to form a salt and water. Example: HCl + NaOH = NaCl + H2O.

Question 6

What are the key mnemonics for redox reactions?

Answer 6

OIL RIG - Oxidation Is Loss, Reduction Is Gain. Oxidation involves the loss of electrons, and reduction involves the gain of electrons.