Biological molecules Flashcards
What is covalent bonding?
Where atoms share a a pair of electrons in their outer shell
What is the result of a covalent bond?
A molecule is formed- the outer shells of both atoms are filled
What is ionic bonding?
When ions with opposite charges attract each other with electrostatic forces
Is ionic bonding stronger than covalent bonding?
No
What is a hydrogen bond?
A chemical bond formed between the positive charge on a hydrogen atom and the negative atom on another atom
What is a polar molecule?
A molecule with uneven distribution of charge (polarised)
What type of bond is formed between two atoms when hydrogen bonding takes place?
A weak electrostatic bond
Collectively, what can electrostatic bonds do?
Form important forces that alter the physical properties of molecules
What is a long chain of monomer sub-units called?
Polymers
What is the process of making polymers called?
Polymerisation
What happens when a new sub-unit is attached in the formation of polymers by polymerisation?
A molecule of water is formed
What are reactions that produce molecules of water called?
Condensation reactions
Describe how polymers can be broken down by a hydrolysis reaction
Through the addition of water, water molecules are used when breaking the bonds that link the sub-units of a polymer thereby splitting the molecule into its constituent parts
What is metabolism?
All the chemical processes that take place within living organisms
What is a mole?
Molecular mass expressed in grams
