Unit 2: The Chemistry of Life

Question 1

Explain the structure of atoms.

Answer 1

Atoms have a nucleus (protons, neutrons) with electrons orbiting. Covalent bonds involve sharing electrons.

Question 2

What is the relationship between monomers and polymers?

Answer 2

Monomers are building blocks of polymers; polymers are formed by repetitive bonding of monomers.

Question 3

List the four macromolecules and their elements.

Answer 3

Carbohydrates: C, H, O; Monosaccharide.
Lipids: C, H, O; Fatty acids, glycerol.
Nucleic acids: C, H, O, N, P; Nucleotide.
Proteins: C, H, O, N; Amino acid.

Question 4

Describe the location and function of macromolecules within cells.

Answer 4

Carbs and lipids in cell membrane, nucleic acids in the nucleus, proteins throughout the cell with various functions.

Question 5

What happens during chemical reactions?

Answer 5

Chemical reactions involve breaking and forming bonds. Hydrolysis adds water, dehydration synthesis removes water.

Question 6

Explain the role of enzymes in living things.

Answer 6

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions.

Question 7

List types of cells and their organelles.

Answer 7

Prokaryote (no nucleus), Eukaryote (nucleus, organelles like mitochondria, chloroplast).