Lec. 6 - Proteins, Sugars, Fats

Question 1

Explain hydrolysis/dehydration reactions; what is gained or lost, how are they involved in the formation of macromolecules.

Answer 1

They are two fundamental types of chem. reactions involved in the formation and breakdown of macromolecules. Dehydration synthesis occurs when two molecules combine to form a larger molecule, resulting in the removal of a water molecule. Hydrolysis is the reverse process of dehydration synthesis, a larger molecule is broken down into smaller molecules through the addition of a water molecule.

Question 2

Describe the difference between acids and bases.

Answer 2

Acids are substances that when dissolved in water, release hydrogen. Bases are substances when dissolved in water release hydroxide ions.

Question 3

Explain how pH affects the cellular environment.

Answer 3

Any deviation from the optimal pH can disrupt cellular processes, compromise protein structures, and interfere with enzymatic activities.

Question 4

Describe the levels of protein structure and which levels are affected by pH changes.

Answer 4

Tertiary structures and secondary structures are affected by pH change. In secondary structure, pH change can disrupt the hydrogen bonds. In tertiary structures pH change can affect ionic interactions, and hydrophobic interactions.

Question 5

Explain denaturation.

Answer 5

It’s the process in which a proteins structure undergoes a significant alteration resulting in the disruption of its native, 3D conformation.