Phys Ch 2 Vocab Flashcards
Metabolism
the sum of all chemical reactions
Elements
unique substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances
Matter
the “stuff” of the universe; occupies space and mass
Mass
the amount of matter
Molecule
when two or more elements combine chemically
Compound
when two or more different elements combine
Chemical Reaction
process in which molecules are formed, changed, or broken down
Anabolism
the combining of similar substances to form more complex substances
Catabolism
the breaking down of substances into similar substances by living cells; destructive metabolism
Catalyst
a substance that increases the rate of reaction
Valance (shell)
the outermost energy level of an atom
Orbital
Covalent Bond
molecules that share atoms
pH Scale
the level of hydrogen ion concentration
Hydroxide
Ionic Bond
when electrons are completely transferred
Hydrogen Bond
weak bonds; when hydrogen bonds to one electron Nitrogen or Oxygen
Energy
the ability to do work or put matter into motion
Atomic Number
the number of protons
Atomic Mass
the total number of protons and neutrons
Radioactivity
spontanious atomic decay
Organic Chemistry
carbon-based compounds
Carbohydrates
sugars and starches, containing carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
Saccharides
sugars
Lipids
a large and diverse group of organic compounds
Proteins
the main building material of cells
Nucleic Acids
they make up genes, which provide the basic blueprints of life
ATP
provides a form of chemical energy that is usable by all body cells
