Thermodynamics Flashcards
What is the first law of thermodynamics?
Energy can neither be converted nor destroyed
What is the second law of thermodynamics?
All energy transformations ultimately lead to more disorder, an increase in entropy
What is enthalpy defined as?
The total energy within a system
What is entropy defined as?
The disorder within a system
What is the equation to calculate gibbs free energy?
TriangleG=triangleH - T triangle S
What is free energy measured in?
Kcal/mol
What does a delta G less than 0 indicate?
The reaction is spontaneous and energy releasing
What does delta G greater than 0 indicate?
That the reaction is spontaeous backwards (endergonic)
What does a delta G equal to 0 mean?
The reaction is at equilibrium
What type of delta G do biological reactions require?
Positive delta G, since they require more order rather than less
What is meant by energy coupling?
An energetically unfavourable reaction is driven by an energetically favourable reaction.
Define metabolism
Metabolic processes are chemical reactions and these often involve generation of heat.
Define metabolic pathways
A series of connected chemical reactions that feed one another.
The pathway takes in one or more starting molecules and, through intermediates, converts them into products.
Define catabolism
The breakdown of complex molecules in living organisms to form simpler ones, together with the release of energy; destructive metabolism.
Define anabolism
Simpler substances are combined to form more complex molecules
Require energy
