Biological Molecules Flashcards
Y1
1
Q
Why are phosphate ions important?
A
They are used in
* Phosphate bonds in ATP to store chemical energy
* Phosphate groups in DNA & RNA to form the sugar-phosphate backbone
2
Q
Why are iron ions important?
A
They have a high affinity for oxygen molecules - they are used in haem groups in haemoglobin
3
Q
Why are sodium ions important?
A
They are used with co-transporters to aid in bringing glucose or amino acids through a cell membrane
Intestines (digestion), Distal convoluted tuble (kidneys)
4
Q
Why are hydrogen ions important?
A
pH is a measure of hydrogen ion concentration - pH affects enzyme controlled reactions
5
Q
List the biological importance of water
A
- Ice is less dense than water
- Good transport medium
- Transparency
- Good solvent
- Liquid with a relatively high boiling point
- Cohesion & adhesion
- High specific heat capacity
- High latent heat of vaporisation
- Metabolic role
6
Q
A
