Anatomy & Physiology Vocabulary Chapters 2-4

The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

Metabolic pathways that construct molecules from smaller units, requiring energy.

Metabolic pathways that break down molecules into smaller units, releasing energy.

A protein that acts as a biological catalyst to speed up chemical reactions.

A measure of hydrogen ion concentration; ranges from 0 (acidic) to 14 (basic), with 7 being neutral.

A substance that helps maintain stable pH by neutralizing acids or bases.

Organic molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen; primary energy source for cells.

Hydrophobic organic molecules including fats, oils, and steroids; important for energy storage and cell membranes.

Polymers of amino acids that perform structural, enzymatic, and regulatory functions.

Macromolecules (DNA and RNA) that store and transmit genetic information.

A phospholipid bilayer that controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Organelles known as the powerhouse of the cell; generate ATP through cellular respiration.

The passive movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to lower concentration.

The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.

The movement of molecules against their concentration gradient using energy (ATP).

Deoxyribonucleic acid; the molecule that carries genetic instructions for development and function.

Ribonucleic acid; involved in protein synthesis and gene expression.

Adenosine triphosphate; the primary energy carrier in cells.

The concept that enzymes catalyze only specific reactions with specific substrates.

Atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons.

A chemical bond formed by the transfer of electrons between atoms.

A chemical bond formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms.

A weak bond between a hydrogen atom and an electronegative atom, important in water and DNA structure.