Chapter 7 Flashcards
Define the term atom and describe its parts.
An atom is a particle of matter that uniquely defines a chemical element. Atoms consist of three basic particles: protons, electrons, and neutrons
Describe the difference between an anion and a cation and state how they are formed.
Cations are positively-charged ions (atoms or groups of atoms that have more protons than electrons due to having lost one or more electrons). Anions are negatively-charged ions (meaning they have more electrons than protons due to having gained one or more electrons).
What are isotopes?
An isotope is a variation of an element that possesses the same atomic number but a different mass number.
What are isomers?
One of two or more compounds that have the same chemical formula but different arrangements of the atoms within the molecules and that may have different physical/chemical properties.
Differentiate between organic and inorganic compounds.
The primary difference that lies between these organic compounds and inorganic compounds is that organic compounds always have a carbon atom, while most of the inorganic compounds do not contain a carbon atom in them.
Differentiate between solvents and solutes.
A solute is a substance that can be dissolved into a solution by a solvent. A solvent is a substance in which a solute is dissolved.
Compare acids and bases and discuss their effects on pH.
Acids are substances that provide hydrogen ions (H+) and lower pH, whereas bases provide hydroxide ions (OH–) and raise pH.
Define the term buffer and state why buffers are important in biological systems.
A buffer is a solution that can resist pH change upon the addition of an acidic or basic components. It is able to neutralize small amounts of added acid or base, thus maintaining the pH of the solution relatively stable. This is important for processes and/or reactions which require specific and stable pH ranges.
Define the term valence electron and state how these electrons relate to bonding.
The electrons on the outermost energy level of the atom are called valence electrons. The valence electrons are involved in bonding one atom to another. The attraction of each atom’s nucleus for the valence electrons of the other atom pulls the atoms together.
Compare ionic, covalent and hydrogen bonds.
In a covalent bond, two atoms share one or more electrons. Water is a polar molecule. A hydrogen bond is a relatively weak bond between two oppositely partially charged sides of two or more molecules. In an ionic bond, an atom gives away one or more electrons to another atom.
Describe electrolytes and explain why they are important in biological systems.
Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electrical charge when dissolved in water. They’re vital for your nervous system, muscles and maintaining an optimal body environment.
Define the terms hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and amphipathic.
All of the lipid molecules in cell membranes are amphipathic (or amphiphilic)—that is, they have a hydrophilic (“water-loving”) or polar end and a hydrophobic (“water-fearing”) or nonpolar end.
