Chapter 4: Chemical composition in a cell Flashcards
What type of a compound is water?
Inorganic compound
What are the four functions of water?
- medium for biochemical reactions
- acts as a universal solvent
- provide support for herbaceous plants
- helps in lubrication
What are the properties of water?
- polarity
- high specific heat capacity
- cohesive and adhesive forces
Explain the polarity of water
- polar molecule - opposite charges - attraction - hydrogen bond - polarity - water-soluble - transported - plasma
Explain specific heat capacity
- 4.2J
- maintain body temperature so body cells can work efficiently
Explain cohesive and adhesive forces
- water molecules are attracted to each other through cohesive force
- water molecules are attracted to the surface of other substances through adhesive force
- both forces produce capillary action which enables water molecules to move up
Are carbohydrate inorganic compounds?
No. They are organic compounds that consist of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen elements in the ratio 1:2:1
What are the three main types of carbohydrates?
- monosaccharides
- disaccharides
- polysaccharides
What type of carbohydrate is maltose?
- disaccharides
Where is fructose found?
- Fruits
- Honey
Other than being soluble in water, what are the characteristics of monosaccharides?
- sweet
- all are reducing sugars
- can crystallize
What is reducing power?
- Ability to transfer hydrogen to other compounds
What are the monomers of carbohydrates called?
- monosaccharides
In which process a water molecule is produced?
- condensation
What is the equation for the formation of sucrose?
- glucose + fructose -> sucrose
What is hydrolysis?
- this process requires a water molecule to break down disaccharides
Is sucrose a reducing sugar?
- No, sucrose is a non-reducing sugar
Other than starch, what are the types of polysaccharides?
- Glycogen and Cellulose
What is the monomer for polysaccharides?
- glucose
Are polysaccharides water-soluble?
- no
