RPA definitions Flashcards
Addition reaction
One in which a reactant is added to an unsaturated molecule to make a saturated molecule
Reflux
The continual boiling and condensing of a reaction mixture to ensure that the reaction takes place without the contents of the flask boiling dry
Esterification
Reaction of alcohol w. carboxylic acid to make ester and water
Hydrolysis
Reaction with water or OH- ions that breaks a chemical compound into two compounds
Peptide
A compound made of amino acids linked by peptide bonds
Zwitterion
A dipolar ionic form of an amino acid that is formed by the donation of a hydrogen ion from the carboxyl group to the amino group. Because both charges are present, there is no overall charge
Stereoisomers
Species with the same structural formula but with a different arrangement of the atoms in space
Chiral carbon
A carbon atom attached to four different atoms or group of atoms
Optical isomers
Stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other
Biodegradable polymer
A polymer that breaks down completely into CO2 and water
Degradable polymer
A polymer that breaks down into smaller fragments when exposed to heat, light or moisture
Pharmacological activity
The beneficial or adverse effects of a drug on living matter
Adsorption
The process by which a solid holds molecules of a gas or liquid or solute as a thin film on the surface of a solid or rarely, a liquid
