Biological molecules Flashcards
1
Q
Why is it useful that water has a high specific heat capacity?
A
It can act as a buffer against sudden temperature changes - which is good for aquatic environments.
2
Q
Name a biological process in the body which is caused by waters latent heat of vaporisation?
A
Sweating, to cool the body down
3
Q
What allows water to be sucked up a xylem vessel?
A
Water is cohesive.
4
Q
Name a biological reaction where water is used?
A
Hydrolysis reaction
5
Q
Why is water a good solvent?
A
It can dissolve: gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide
- wastes like ammonia and urea
- inorganic ions and small hydrophilic molecules like amino acids, ATP and monosaccharides
- enzymes, when in solution
6
Q
What property of water allows aquatic plants to photosynthesise and let light rays reach the retina?
A
It is transparent
7
Q
What makes Water di polar?
A
Oxygen more electronegative than hydrogen.
