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Anatomy & Physiology: Chemistry and Biochemistry Basics

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Terms in this set (24)

  • What is matter?

    Matter is anything that has mass and occupies space. It can be seen, smelled, or felt.

  • What are the three states of matter?

    Solid (definite shape and volume), Liquid (changeable shape, definite volume), Gas (changeable shape and volume).

  • Define energy in physiology.

    Energy is the capacity to do work or put matter into motion.

  • Difference between kinetic and potential energy.

    Kinetic energy is energy in action (motion), while potential energy is stored, inactive energy.

  • List the four main forms of energy relevant to the body.

    Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, Radiant (electromagnetic).

  • What are elements?

    Elements are substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by ordinary chemical methods.

  • Which four elements make up 96% of the human body?

    Oxygen, Carbon, Hydrogen, and Nitrogen.

  • What is an atom?

    The smallest particle of an element with properties of that element, made of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

  • Charge and mass of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

    Protons: positive charge (+), 1 amu; Neutrons: no charge (0), 1 amu; Electrons: negative charge (-), negligible mass (0 amu).

  • Difference between molecule and compound.

    A molecule is two or more atoms bonded together; a compound is a molecule with two or more different kinds of atoms.

  • What is a solution in chemistry?

    A homogeneous mixture where particles are evenly distributed; consists of a solvent and solute(s).

  • Define chemical bonds.

    Energy relationships between electrons of reacting atoms that determine chemical reactions and bond types.

  • Difference between organic and inorganic compounds.

    Organic compounds contain carbon and are covalently bonded; inorganic compounds do not contain carbon.

  • Why is water important in the body?

    Water is the most abundant inorganic compound, with high heat capacity, solvent properties, reactivity, and cushioning functions.

  • What are salts and their role in the body?

    Salts are ionic compounds that dissociate into ions (electrolytes) essential for electrical conduction and homeostasis.

  • What is dehydration synthesis?

    A chemical reaction where two molecules are joined by removing water.

  • What are carbohydrates composed of?

    Carbohydrates contain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, with hydrogen and oxygen in a 2:1 ratio.

  • Name the three classes of carbohydrates.

    Monosaccharides (single sugars), Disaccharides (two sugars), Polysaccharides (many sugars).

  • What is the general formula for monosaccharides?

    \((CH_2O)_n\), where n is the number of carbon atoms.

  • What are triglycerides composed of?

    One glycerol molecule and three fatty acid chains.

  • Describe phospholipids and their importance.

    Modified triglycerides with a glycerol, two fatty acids, and a phosphorus group; important for cell membrane structure.

  • What are proteins made of?

    Polymers of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.

  • How many amino acids are there and what groups do they contain?

    20 types; each contains an amino group and a carboxyl group.

  • What are nucleic acids?

    DNA and RNA, molecules that store and transfer genetic information.