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Basic Chemistry Principles in Anatomy & Physiology

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Terms in this set (20)

  • What four elements make up 96% of the human body?
    Carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen make up 96% of the body.
  • Define an element in basic chemistry.
    Elements are substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by ordinary chemical methods.
  • What is an atom?
    An atom is the smallest particle of an element with its properties and is the unique building block of each element.
  • Difference between a molecule and a compound?
    A molecule is two or more atoms bonded together; a compound is a molecule with two or more different kinds of atoms bonded.
  • What are the three basic types of mixtures in the body?
    Solutions, colloids, and suspensions are the three basic types of mixtures.
  • Define a solution in chemistry.
    A solution is a homogeneous mixture with particles evenly distributed; it has a solvent and solute(s).
  • What is a colloid and its key property?
    A colloid is a heterogeneous mixture with large particles that do not settle out, often appearing cloudy or milky.
  • What defines a suspension?
    A suspension is a heterogeneous mixture with large visible solutes that settle out over time.
  • How do mixtures differ from compounds?
    Mixtures have no chemical bonding, can be separated physically, and can be heterogeneous or homogeneous; compounds have chemical bonds and are homogeneous.
  • What happens during a synthesis chemical reaction?
    Atoms or molecules combine to form a larger, more complex molecule.
  • Describe a decomposition reaction.
    A molecule breaks down into smaller molecules or atoms; it is the reverse of synthesis.
  • What is an exchange (displacement) reaction?
    A reaction where bonds are both made and broken, involving synthesis and decomposition.
  • What is the difference between exergonic and endergonic reactions?
    Exergonic reactions release energy; endergonic reactions absorb energy.
  • Name three factors that affect the speed of chemical reactions.
    Temperature, concentration of reactants, and particle size affect reaction rates.
  • What role do catalysts play in chemical reactions?
    Catalysts increase reaction rates without being changed or becoming part of the product; enzymes are biological catalysts.
  • What distinguishes organic from inorganic compounds in the body?
    Organic compounds contain carbon and are made by living things; inorganic compounds generally lack carbon.
  • Why is water vital to life? List key properties.
    Water has high heat capacity, high heat of vaporization, polar solvent properties, reactivity, and cushioning ability.
  • Explain water's role as a solvent in the body.
    Water dissolves nutrients, gases, and wastes, enabling chemical reactions and transport in blood plasma and other fluids.
  • How does water help regulate body temperature?
    Water absorbs/releases heat with little temperature change and cools the body via evaporation of sweat.
  • What is the significance of water's cushioning property?
    Water cushions organs, protecting them from physical trauma, e.g., cerebrospinal fluid around the brain.