The Life Sciences Flashcards
Define molecular biology
the study of the formation, structure, and function of macromolecules that are essential for life
Define biochemistry
the study of chemical substances and processes in living organisms
What elements make up most of the chemical compounds in living organisms?
Oxygen (65%), carbon (18.5%), hydrogen (9.5%), nitrogen (3.3%), phosphorus (0.4%), sulfur (0.3%). Think of the acronym “SPONCH”.
What trace elements are required by organisms in small quantities?
Iron, iodine
Organic compounds are those that have…
carbon in them.
Inorganic compounds essential for life include…
Water, oxygen, salt
All organic macromolecules contain carbon such as
carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids
Carbon is tetravalent which means that it can form…
up to 4 covalent bonds
All lipids are mostly composed of hydrogen and carbon and and are…
hydrophobic
The four primary types of lipids are…
fats, phospholipids, steroids, and wax
Fats store energy, provide insulation, and cushion vital organs. They are composed of glycerol connected to fatty acids. These fatty acids can be saturated or unsaturated depending on…
the amount of hydrogen bonds
Phospholipids make up cell membranes. They are made of a…
glycerol, 2 fatty acids, and a phosphate
Sterols, a subgroup of steroids, are important organic molecules, the most important of which is…
cholesterol
Hormones are steroids that act as…
messengers
Wax is a lipid that is typically used for…
structural protection ex. ear wax
