Bio unit 2 Flashcards

(94 cards)

1
Q

cells are made up of how much water

A

75%

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

4 properties of water

A

-effeicent solvent due to polarity (water is polar)
-cohesive and adheisve
-desner as a luqid expands upon freezing
abilty to moderate temp by abosribing energy

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

one molecule of water has how mnay polar covalnet bonds

A

2
elctrons are pulled towards oxygen bc of eletronagtivty

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

how do hydrogen bonds form

A

between water molecules

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

1st law of therodynamics

A

energy is neither created nor detsoryed it just changes form
ex: When you eat food, the chemical energy in the food changes into kinetic energy (movement) and thermal energy (heat) in your body.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

2nd law of therodymacs

A

-entropy ( disorder in a group of molecules) always increases this is spotanous
-But the natural tendency is disorder, so cells are constantly using energy to maintain order.
-energy is needed to work assaint entropoy
entropy = messiness, and energy = the effort needed to keep things in order.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

Monomers

A

Definition: Small, single building blocks (one unit).
Example:
Glucose (sugar) → monomer for carbohydrates
Amino acids → monomers for proteins
Nucleotides → monomers for nucleic acids (DNA/RNA)
Analogy: Like a single LEGO brick.
Monomer = 1 piece

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

Polymers

A

Definition: Large molecules made by linking many monomers together.
Example:
Starch (carbohydrate) → made of many glucose molecules
Proteins → made of many amino acids
DNA → made of many nucleotides
Analogy: A LEGO castle made by connecting many bricks.
Polymer = many pieces linked together

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

why does polymerization defiy 2nd law of therodyamncs

A

Polymerization defies spontaneity
When monomers form polymers in cells:
-The reaction does not happen by itself.
-Cells must use energy (ATP) to drive the process.
Local order increases (monomers → polymer), which might look like entropy is decreasing.
-But because energy is used, the overall entropy of the surroundings increases (heat, byproducts).
-The Second Law is about the total entropy of the universe, not just the local system.
-Making a LEGO castle from loose bricks doesn’t happen on its own—you have to spend energy to build it.
-The “messiness” in your room (heat, scattered bricks you drop) actually increases overall disorder.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

Polymerization

A

Definition: The chemical process of joining monomers together to make a polymer.
What happens:
Individual monomers (small molecules) connect through chemical bonds. ( need energy for this)
This forms a long chain or network called a polymer.
Analogy
Think of LEGO bricks: each brick is a monomer. Polymerization is like clicking the bricks together to build a long chain or structure (the polymer).

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

Dehydration Synthesis

A

-a specific type of polymerization
Definition: A chemical reaction where monomers are joined to form a polymer.
How it works:
-Two monomers come together.
-A molecule of water (H₂O) is removed—this is the “condensation” part.
Key points:
-This reaction is not spontaneous—it requires energy.
-Cells usually get this energy from ATP or other high-energy molecules.
-It’s like snapping two LEGO bricks together, but you have to take out a small connector piece (water) and use effort/energy to make the connection.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

Hydrolysis

A

Definition: A chemical reaction that breaks a polymer into monomers.
How it works:
-A water molecule (H₂O) is added.
-The polymer chain is split, and the monomers are released.
Key points:
-This reaction is often spontaneous—it can happen without extra energy.
-Energy is not required (or much less than for synthesis).
-Hydrolysis = snapping apart the bricks by adding water.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

is hydrolysis and dehydration synthesis type of Polymerization

A

Dehydration synthesis → type of polymerization (it builds polymers from monomers). ✅

Hydrolysis → breaks polymers into monomers, so it is not polymerization. ❌

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

what % of cells are made of proteins

A

50%

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

Methionine (MET)

A

Role: Usually the first amino acid in a protein during translation.
Side chain: Has a nonpolar (avoids water,found inside proteins, helping form the hydrophobic core,doesn’t usually form bonds)
Special note: Sets the start signal for protein synthesis

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

Cysteine (CYS)

A

Unique feature: The only standard amino acid with a reactive sulfur (-SH) group in its side chain.
Importance: Can form disulfide bonds (S–S) with another cysteine, which stabilizes protein structure.
Side chain type: Polar (can react chemically, strong links between parts of a protein,interact with water or other polar groups)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

every polypeptide (protein chain) has two distinct ends which are:

A

N-terminus (Amino Terminus)
-Definition: The start of the polypeptide chain.
-Feature: Has a free amino group (-NH₂).
-Significance: This is the first amino acid (often methionine) in a newly made protein.

C-terminus (Carboxyl Terminus)
-Definition: The end of the polypeptide chain.
-Feature: Has a free carboxyl group (-COOH).
-Significance: The chain grows from the N-terminus to the C-terminus during protein synthesis.

N-terminus = engine (start)
C-terminus = caboose (end)
crucial for structure and function.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

Polypeptide:

A

Polypeptide: Many (poly) amino acids (peptides) joined in a chain.
-The amino acids are linked by peptide bonds, which form through dehydration synthesis (water is removed when the bond forms).

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

4 level of protein structures

A

-primary
-secondary
-teriatry
-quaternary

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

primary protein structure

A

Definition: The unique sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.
Key points:
Sequence matters: Even a single amino acid change can affect the protein’s function.
-Peptide bonds link the amino acids together.
-Side chains (R-groups) do not interact at this level—they just dangle along the chain.
Result: A linear polypeptide with a specific order of amino acids.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

Secondary Protein Structure

A

Definition: Local folding of a polypeptide chain due to hydrogen bonds between the backbone atoms (not side chains).
Key points:
-Hydrogen bonds form between the carbonyl oxygen (C=O) of one amino acid and the amino hydrogen (N-H) of another.
-These bonds occur along the backbone of the polypeptide, not the R-groups (side chains).
Two common shapes:
-Alpha helix (α-helix): Spiral shape stabilized by hydrogen bonds.
-Beta sheet (β-sheet): Zig-zag or pleated sheet stabilized by hydrogen bonds.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

Tertiary Protein Structure and what type of reactions

A

Definition: The overall 3D shape of a single polypeptide chain.
What determines it: Interactions between the R-groups (side chains) of amino acids.
Types of interactions that stabilize tertiary structure:
-Hydrophobic interactions: Nonpolar side chains cluster inside the protein, away from water.
-Disulfide bonds: Strong covalent bonds between two cysteine residues (–S–S–).
-Ionic bonds (salt bridges): Between positively and negatively charged side chains.
-Hydrogen bonds: Between polar side chains.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

Quaternary Protein Structure

A

Definition: The 3D structure formed when two or more polypeptide chains (subunits) join together to make a macromolecule
exmaple:
Hemoglobin Tetramer (4 polypeptides)
Cro protein Dimer (2 polypeptides)
The pol[eteides interact through the same types of interactions as tertiary structure:

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

polar

A

hydrphlic
pulling electrons ahrder
not evenly distraibted

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
non polar
hydrophobic equally sahred
26
valance
weakest pull from the center
27
R-Groups (Side Chains)
Definition: The variable part of an amino acid that gives it its unique properties. Every amino acid has: -Amino group (–NH₂) -Carboxyl group (–COOH) -Hydrogen (H) -R-group (side chain) → this is what differs between amino acid
28
What does it mean to be hydrophilic versus hydrophobic? How does polarity relate to these qualities?
🌊 Hydrophilic: The molecule can mix with or dissolve in water. polar 🛑 Hydrophobic: The molecule does not dissolve in water; instead it clumps together to avoid water. nonpolar
29
What is an acid and what is a base, for our purposes? What is the pH range for each? What does a change of 1 signify on the pH scale? What do buffers do?
✅ Quick Summary -Acids: donate H⁺ → pH < 7 -Bases: accept H⁺ / give OH⁻ → pH > 7 -1 pH change = 10× H⁺ difference -Buffers: stabilize pH Acids -Definition: Donate H⁺ ions (protons) in solution -pH range: 0–6.9 -Example: HCl (stomach acid), vinegar Bases -Definition: Accept H⁺ ions or produce OH⁻ ions -pH range: 7.1–14 -Example: Ammonia (NH₃), baking soda -pH Scale -Range: 0–14 (logarithmic) -Neutral: pH 7 (pure water) -Rule: 1 pH unit = 10× difference in H⁺ concentration -Ex: pH 5 has 10× more H⁺ than pH 6, 100× more than pH 7 Buffers -Definition: Substances that resist pH changes -How: Absorb excess H⁺ or release H⁺ when low -Purpose: Maintain homeostasis (stable pH) -Example: Blood buffer system → keeps blood ~pH 7.4
30
What is an organic molecule? What are 4 categories of organic molecules (also called biomolecules or macromolecules), and where do we find them?
🌟 Definition Organic molecules are compounds that contain carbon (C) bonded to hydrogen (H) (often also O, N, P, or S). They are the building blocks of life, forming the structure and function of all living things. 🔹 Carbon can form 4 bonds, allowing it to build large, complex molecules. ✅ Quick Mnemonic Recap: Carbs = 🍞 Quick energy. - C, H, O (1:2:1) - Quick energy, short-term storage, plant structure (cell walls) - Glucose, starch, glycogen, cellulose Lipids = 🥑 Long-term energy + membranes - C, H (sometimes P) - Long-term energy, insulation, cell membranes, hormones - Fats, oils, phospholipids, steroids Proteins = 💪 Cell workers (enzymes, transport, defense) - C, H, O, N (sometimes S) - Structure, enzymes, transport, defense - Enzymes, hemoglobin, keratin, antibodies Nucleic Acids = 📖 Instructions for life (DNA, RNA, ATP) - C, H, O, N, P - Store and transmit genetic information - DNA, RNA, ATP
31
What is the valence # of carbon? Why does this matter? What is a hydrocarbon? Is it hydrophilic or hydrophobic? Why? (Think about electronegativity and polarity!)
✅Quick Summary: Carbon = 4 bonds; hydrocarbons = nonpolar, hydrophobic. -Valence # of carbon: 4 → forms 4 covalent bonds → backbone of life (chains, rings, branched structures). -Importance: Enables variety of biomolecules: carbs, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids. -Hydrocarbon: Molecule made of only C + H (e.g., methane CH₄, fatty acid tails, gasoline). -Polarity: Nonpolar → hydrophobic (water-fearing). -Why hydrophobic: C–H bonds share electrons equally; water is polar → “like dissolves like” → hydrocarbons don’t mix with water (oil separates).
32
What are the 6 functional groups found on organic molecules, and what are their structures? What is special about each one? Most of these “accessories” help to provide a hydrophilic area to organic molecules, which enables them to react. But which functional group is hydrophobic?
Hydroxyl group (-OH) Structure: R–OH Special: Polar (because O is highly electronegative). Forms hydrogen bonds. Effect: Makes molecules hydrophilic. Found in alcohols (ethanol). 2. Carbonyl group (C=O) Structure: Aldehyde → R–CHO (carbonyl at end) Ketone → R–CO–R (carbonyl in middle) Special: Polar; makes molecules more reactive. Effect: Hydrophilic; important in sugars (glucose, fructose). 3. Carboxyl group (-COOH) Structure: R–C(=O)–OH Special: Acts as an acid → can donate H⁺. Effect: Polar, hydrophilic, common in amino acids & fatty acids. 4. Amino group (-NH₂) Structure: R–NH₂ (sometimes protonated as R–NH₃⁺) Special: Acts as a base → can pick up H⁺. Effect: Polar, hydrophilic, found in amino acids. 5. Phosphate group (-PO₄²⁻) Structure: R–O–PO₃²⁻ (one O bonded to carbon backbone) Special: Negatively charged, very polar. Stores & transfers energy (ATP, DNA backbone). Effect: Hydrophilic, reactive, key in energy transfer. 6. Methyl group (-CH₃) Structure: R–CH₃ Special: Nonpolar, does not form hydrogen bonds. Effect: Hydrophobic. Often used as a tag (DNA methylation → gene regulation). ✅ Summary Hydrophilic groups (polar): Hydroxyl, Carbonyl, Carboxyl, Amino, Phosphate. Hydrophobic group (nonpolar): Methyl (-CH₃).
33
how protiens are bonds
polypeptide chain
34
why are lipids hydrophibic
lots of hydrocarbons
35
what are the mononerms and polymoers of carbohydrates
monoscrhdies, olisaxrdies, polycasrchdes
36
what is the standard orienation of dna
one starand runs 5-3 and the other 3-5
37
what are storage polyscahrdies
startch is found in plants glycogen is found in anamilas
38
two types of carbohydrates
cellulose plant cell walls structure startch in plant cekks energy storage
39
3 parts of nuclotide monomer
phospahte group, nitrogen base, 5 carbon pentose suagr
40
stanratd oritenation for proteins
n termnious c termnious
41
what are structal polysahrdies for lipids and carbohydrates
cellouse found in oknats chtin in anmils
42
what are hydrophobi and hydrophlic regions on portiens
protiens can be amphipathic
43
cysteine, urcial, thymine
pyridamine single six mebered ring
44
Why do C–H bonds (and similar bonds) store high potential energy?
C–H bonds are relatively nonpolar → electrons are shared fairly equally. Because of this, they store a lot of chemical (potential) energy. Breaking these bonds (e.g., during cellular respiration) releases a large amount of energy.
45
What bond creates the sugar-phosphate backbone in nucleic acids?
A phosphodiester linkage. Formed between the phosphate group of one nucleotide and the 3′ hydroxyl (-OH) group of another. Results from a dehydration synthesis reaction (water released). Creates the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA and RNA, giving them structural stability.
46
what is a prion
portens that act as infections diease casuing agents
47
what are steriods with a what
a type of lipid with 4 carbon rings
48
What is a glycosidic linkage, and how is it formed?
What is a glycosidic linkage? It’s just the glue (a covalent bond) that holds two sugars (monosaccharides) together. How is it formed? Imagine two sugars holding hands. Each sugar “drops something” to connect: One sugar drops an H (hydrogen). The other drops an OH (hydroxyl). Together, those make H₂O (water), which gets released. Now the two sugars are linked by a covalent bond → that bond is the glycosidic linkage.
49
4 catogroes of lipids and which one contains fatty acids and doesnt
fats- caontain fatty acid steriods- no fatty acids phisplipds- cpntain faty acids waxx- contain fatty acids
50
what is a phospolipd and how is it joined
glyercol at core phosophate group, 2 fatty acod tails, jpined by ester linkage tails are hydrohobc hydrophic head
51
watson and somethig midel
scietnts figured out that the pyrine pyrmaide fit just right
52
what is oliscahrdies
Oligosaccharides = “short chains of sugars” (a few monosaccharides linked by glycosidic bonds). When these sugar chains are attached to proteins, you get a glycoprotein. Think of it like this: The protein = the worker (does jobs in the membrane). The oligosaccharide chain = the worker’s ID badge.
53
What is a monomer, and what is a polymer? What are the two different names given to the chemical reaction which links monomers (and that also links fatty acids to glycerols)? Why? What is the name of the reaction which breaks the bonds in a polymer that hold the monomers together? Why?
Monomer = small building block molecule. Polymer = large molecule made of repeating monomers. Linking reaction = dehydration reaction or condensation reaction → water is removed when the bond forms. Breaking reaction = hydrolysis → water is added to break the bond.
54
Know the four parts of an amino acid. Why are there 2 different ways to write this?
4 parts: Amino group (–NH₂) Carboxyl group (–COOH) Hydrogen atom (–H) R group (side chain, variable) 2 ways to write: Structural formula (shows atoms and bonds in detail). Generalized formula (simplified, highlights core groups + “R” placeholder).
55
specific monomers for proteins, and their corresponding polymers.
monomer: amino acids → polymer: polypeptides/proteins
56
specific monomers for nucleic acids a and their corresponding polymers.
Nucleic acids (DNA/RNA) → monomer: nucleotides → polymer: nucleic acids
57
specific monomers for carbohydrates, and their corresponding polymers.
Carbohydrates → monomer: monosaccharides → polymer: polysaccharides
58
portiens what type of a bond results from joining monomers in each category of macromolecule.
Proteins → amino acids joined by peptide bonds
59
nuclic acods what type of a bond results from joining monomers in each category of macromolecule. (
Nucleic acids → nucleotides joined by phosphodiester bonds
60
carbohydrates what type of a bond results from joining monomers in each category of macromolecule. (
Carbohydrates → monosaccharides joined by glycosidic bonds
61
lipids what type of a bond results from joining monomers in each category of macromolecule. (
Lipids → fatty acids + glycerol joined by ester bonds
62
Why is it significant that proteins may be amphipathic ? What does this have to do with amino acids?
Amphipathic = having both hydrophobic (nonpolar) and hydrophilic (polar/charged) regions. Significance: Allows proteins to fold correctly, embed in membranes, and interact with both water and lipids. Connection to amino acids: Each amino acid’s R group (side chain) determines whether it’s hydrophobic or hydrophilic → the mix of these in a protein makes it amphipathic.
63
What is an N-terminus, and what is a C-terminus? How would you be able to recognize them?
N-terminus = end of a polypeptide with a free amino group (–NH₂). C-terminus = end of a polypeptide with a free carboxyl group (–COOH). Recognition: N-terminus always has the –NH₂ group exposed. C-terminus always has the –COOH group exposed. By convention, amino acid sequences are written from N → C terminus.
64
What are the 4 levels of protein structure and what happens in each? What happens in the primary structure of a person with HbS (“hemoglobin sickle”), and how does this affect their red blood cells? Why?
Primary → linear sequence of amino acids (peptide bonds). Secondary → local folding into α-helices or β-sheets (H-bonds). Tertiary → overall 3D shape of one polypeptide (interactions among R groups). Quaternary → multiple polypeptides combining into one functional protein. HbS mutation: In the primary structure, a single amino acid changes (glutamic acid → valine). Effect: Valine is hydrophobic → causes hemoglobin to stick together abnormally. Result: Hemoglobin forms long fibers → red blood cells become sickle-shaped, less flexible, and can block blood vessels.
65
Sickle cell disease highlights the fact that DNA gives instructions for how to put a protein together (and then RNA makes it happen in the cytoplasm), and so if something is wrong with the DNA, there will usually be a problem in the protein too
DNA carries the instructions for the amino acid sequence of proteins. RNA (mRNA) delivers the instructions to the ribosome, where proteins are built. If there is a mutation in DNA, the RNA copy carries that error → the wrong amino acid may be placed in the protein. Sickle cell example: DNA mutation → wrong codon in mRNA → valine instead of glutamic acid in hemoglobin → defective protein → sickled red blood cells.
66
How does the structure of a protein lead to its function? Why it is a bad thing when a protein becomes denatured? What is a prion? How do they occur and what do they do?
Structure → Function: A protein’s specific 3D shape (from its amino acid sequence + folding) determines how it interacts with other molecules → this shape gives it its function. Denatured protein: When heat, pH, or chemicals disrupt folding, the protein loses its shape → can no longer perform its function. Prion: Misfolded protein that can cause other proteins of the same type to misfold. Occurrence & Effect: Arise spontaneously, by mutation, or via infection. Cause protein aggregates that damage cells → lead to diseases like mad cow disease, Creutzfeldt-Jakob, etc.
67
ow would you recognize a nucleotide monomer? What are all the parts? What is the difference between a ribonucleotide and a deoxyribonucleotide?
Nucleotide parts: Phosphate group (–PO₄) Pentose sugar (5-carbon sugar) Nitrogenous base (A, T/U, C, G) Recognition: Look for phosphate + sugar + base. Difference: Ribonucleotide (RNA) → sugar = ribose (–OH on 2’ carbon) Deoxyribonucleotide (DNA) → sugar = deoxyribose (–H on 2’ carbon, missing one oxygen)
68
What roles do RNA and DNA play? What makes pyrimidines (PY-CUT) different than purines (Pure As Gold)? Be sure to know the examples of each. How do they pair with each other?
DNA → stores genetic information. RNA → carries instructions from DNA to make proteins; also involved in protein synthesis (mRNA, tRNA, rRNA). Pyrimidines (PY-CUT) → single-ring structure → Cytosine (C), Uracil (U), Thymine (T) Purines (Pure As Gold) → double-ring structure → Adenine (A), Guanine (G) Base pairing: A ↔ T (DNA) or A ↔ U (RNA) G ↔ C
69
How many phosphate functional groups does a nucleotide have?
A nucleotide has 1 phosphate functional group as part of its basic structure. That phosphate can be linked to others to form di- or triphosphates (like ATP, ADP), but a single nucleotide monomer only has one phosphate.
70
What does all of this (nucleotides, phosphate groups) have to do with ATP?
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is a nucleotide with three phosphate groups. The phosphate bonds (especially the last two) store high-energy → breaking them releases energy for cellular work. ATP links the concepts of nucleotides, phosphate groups, and energy transfer: Adenine → nitrogenous base Ribose → sugar Three phosphates → energy storage/release
71
How many H bonds are involved in each complementary base pairing? What is significant about the 5’ and 3’ ends of a DNA molecule? Why is DNA “read’ in this direction? How does antiparallel relate to all of this?
H bonds in base pairing: Adenine (A) – Thymine (T) → 2 hydrogen bonds Guanine (G) – Cytosine (C) → 3 hydrogen bonds 5’ and 3’ ends: DNA strands have directionality: 5’ end = phosphate group attached to the 5’ carbon of the sugar 3’ end = hydroxyl (–OH) attached to the 3’ carbon of the sugar DNA is read 5’ → 3’ because DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the 3’ end, synthesizing the new strand in that direction. Antiparallel: the two DNA strands run opposite directions (one 5’→3’, the other 3’→5’). This orientation allows proper base pairing and replication.
72
What are similarities and differences between RNA and DNA? What are Chargaff’s rules?
Similarities: Both are nucleic acids Both have phosphate, sugar, and nitrogenous bases Both store or transfer genetic information Differences: DNA has deoxyribose sugar; RNA has ribose. DNA is double-stranded; RNA is single-stranded. DNA uses thymine (T); RNA uses uracil (U). DNA stores genetic info long-term; RNA carries out short-term and functional roles. DNA is more stable; RNA is less stable. Chargaff’s rules: A = T and G = C in DNA %A + %T = %G + %C = 100% Explains complementary base pairing
73
What are some attributes of DNA’s double helix? Basically, how does DNA replicate?
Attributes of DNA’s double helix: Two antiparallel strands (5’→3’ opposite 3’→5’) complementary base pairing: A–T (2 H-bonds), G–C (3 H-bonds) Right-handed helix Sugar-phosphate backbone on outside, bases inside Major and minor grooves allow protein binding DNA replication: Semi-conservative: Each new DNA molecule has one old strand + one new strand Steps: Helicase unwinds the double helix DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the 3’ end of the new strand Primase lays down RNA primers for starting replication Ligase seals gaps between Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand Replication occurs 5’ → 3’, with leading and lagging strands due to antiparallel orientation
74
How do proteins interact with DNA, and why is this important?
Proteins can bind to DNA at specific sites (like promoters or enhancers). This controls gene expression by turning genes on or off. Examples: Transcription factors, repressors, polymerases. Proper DNA–protein interaction ensures genes are expressed at the right time, place, and level.
75
How does DNA replication rely on proteins?
Helicase cuts, Primase starts, Polymerase builds, Ligase seals.” Helicase → unwinds the DNA double helix. single-strand binding proteins (SSBs) → stabilize unwound strands. Primase → lays down RNA primers to start replication. DNA polymerase → adds nucleotides to synthesize new DNA strands. Ligase → seals gaps between Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand. Topoisomerase → prevents DNA from supercoiling. Summary: Proteins are essential for unwinding, stabilizing, copying, and finishing DNA replication.
76
Why might RNA have been the first life form?
RNA can store genetic information like DNA. RNA can catalyze chemical reactions like proteins (ribozymes). This dual ability means RNA could replicate itself and perform cellular functions without proteins or DNA, making it a likely candidate for the first self-replicating life molecule.
77
What are the different types of carbohydrates and what are some of their distinguishing features? What is a general chemical formula for a carbohydrate? How might you recognize the name of a monosaccharide?
Types of carbohydrates: Monosaccharides → single sugar units (glucose, fructose, galactose); sweet, soluble, basic building blocks. Disaccharides → two monosaccharides linked by a glycosidic bond (sucrose, lactose, maltose). Polysaccharides → many monosaccharides linked; can be: Storage → starch (plants), glycogen (animals) Structural → cellulose (plants), chitin (fungi/insects) General formula: CₙH₂ₙOₙ (roughly 1:2:1 ratio of C:H:O) Monosaccharide naming clues: Usually end in “-ose” (glucose, fructose, galactose) Often contain multiple –OH groups and a carbonyl group (aldehyde or ketone)
78
What is glycoprotein (great example of an oligosaccharide) and what does it do?
Glycoprotein = a protein covalently bonded to a short carbohydrate chain (oligosaccharide). Functions: Cell recognition & signaling → helps the immune system distinguish self vs. non-self. Protein stability & folding → carbohydrate can stabilize the protein structure. Membrane proteins → often found on cell surfaces, aiding communication and adhesion.
79
Where do you find alpha (α) glycosidic linkages? Where are beta (β) glycosidic linkages? How does each type of linkage relate to their function?
storage molecules α-glycosidic linkages → found in starch (plants) and glycogen (animals) Function: easily broken down for energy storage and release. structure β-glycosidic linkages → found in cellulose (plants) and chitin (fungi/insects) Function: form straight, rigid chains → good for structural support, harder to digest. Key idea: The type of linkage affects shape and digestibility → α = energy, β = structure.
80
What are the types of storage polysaccharides in plants and animals, and how does their structure relate to their function? How about with structural polysaccharides in plants, animals, fungi and bacteria? How does this affect how bacteria react to antibiotics?
Storage polysaccharides: Plants → starch Made of α-glucose, mostly helical chains Function: compact, easily broken down for energy. Animals → glycogen Made of α-glucose, highly branched Function: rapid energy release when needed. Structural polysaccharides: Plants → cellulose Made of β-glucose, straight chains with H-bonds between chains Function: strong, rigid, good for cell walls, not digestible by humans. fungi → chitin β-linked sugar with nitrogen groups Function: structural support in cell walls, exoskeletons of insects. Bacteria → peptidoglycan Sugar chains cross-linked by peptides Function: rigid cell wall, protects from osmotic pressure Relation to antibiotics: Antibiotics like penicillin target peptidoglycan synthesis, weakening bacterial cell walls. Humans don’t have peptidoglycan → antibiotics selectively kill bacteria without harming human cells.
81
Why do fatty acids have more free energy than carbohydrates?
Fatty acids are mostly hydrocarbon chains → highly reduced, with many C–H bonds. Carbohydrates have more C–O bonds, already partially oxidized. More C–H bonds → more electrons can be transferred during oxidation → more energy released per gram. Result: Fatty acids store more energy than carbohydrates for long-term energy storage.
82
What are the 4 types of lipids, and what are their characteristics?
Fats (Triglycerides) Glycerol + 3 fatty acids Function: long-term energy storage, insulation, cushioning Phospholipids Glycerol + 2 fatty acids + phosphate group Function: make up cell membranes, amphipathic (hydrophilic head, hydrophobic tails) Steroids 4 fused carbon rings (e.g., cholesterol, hormones) Function: signaling (hormones), membrane fluidity Waxes Long-chain fatty acids + long-chain alcohols Function: waterproofing, protective coating (plants, animals)
83
What is a fatty acid? What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated? What is butter (solid at RT), and what is oil (liquid at RT)? Why are saturated fats worse for our health? What is a trans fat?
Fatty acid → long hydrocarbon chain with a carboxyl group (–COOH) at one end. Saturated vs. Unsaturated: Saturated → no double bonds, straight chains → pack tightly → solid at room temp (e.g., butter) Unsaturated → ≥1 double bond, kinked chains → don’t pack tightly → liquid at room temp (e.g., oil) Health: Saturated fats → raise LDL (“bad”) cholesterol → increase risk of heart disease Trans fats → artificially hydrogenated unsaturated fats → increase LDL and lower HDL, very unhealthy
84
How is a fat constructed? How about a steroid and a phospholipid? Why is it significant that phospholipids are amphipathic?
Fat (triglyceride) → glycerol + 3 fatty acids (joined by ester bonds) → long-term energy storage. Steroid → 4 fused carbon rings (no fatty acids) → signaling (hormones) and membrane fluidity. Phospholipid → glycerol + 2 fatty acids + phosphate group → amphipathic: hydrophilic head, hydrophobic tails. Significance of amphipathic phospholipids: Form bilayers in cell membranes → hydrophobic tails face inward, hydrophilic heads face water. Creates a selective barrier that controls what enters/exits cells.
85
How do unsaturated and saturated fatty acids relate to the permeability of the cell membrane?
Saturated fatty acids → straight chains → pack tightly → membrane less fluid, less permeable Unsaturated fatty acids → kinked chains due to double bonds → looser packing → membrane more fluid, more permeable Key idea: Degree of saturation affects membrane flexibility, fluidity, and permeability, which is crucial for transport and cell function.
86
What does a phospholipid bilayer look like, and how does this work as a cell membrane?
Structure: Two layers of phospholipids Hydrophilic heads face outward (toward water) Hydrophobic tails face inward (away from water) Function as a cell membrane: Selective barrier → controls what enters/exits the cell Fluidity allows membrane proteins to move and function Amphipathic nature enables self-assembly and repair of the membrane Forms a stable boundary between the cell’s internal environment and the external environment
87
What category of biomolecule do enzymes belong to, and how do they work? What is special about most enzyme names? Make sure that you know all of the parts involved and how it works. What is activation energy, and how does an enzyme affect it? What is “induced fit”?
Category: Enzymes are proteins (some RNAs can act as ribozymes). Function: Speed up chemical reactions by lowering activation energy without being consumed. Naming clue: Most end in “-ase” (e.g., lactase, polymerase). Parts & mechanism: Substrate: molecule(s) the enzyme acts on Active site: part of the enzyme where substrate binds Enzyme-substrate complex: temporary combination of enzyme + substrate Products: molecules formed after reaction Process: substrate binds → enzyme stabilizes transition state → reaction occurs → products released Activation energy (Ea): energy required to start a reaction Enzymes lower Ea, making reactions happen faster at lower temperatures Induced fit: enzyme changes shape slightly when substrate binds → optimizes interaction and catalysis
88
What other molecules work with enzymes, and what type of regulation are enzymes subjected to? How does each work (competitive, feedback, allosteric – 2 types)?
Molecules that work with enzymes: Cofactors: inorganic ions (e.g., Mg²⁺, Zn²⁺) required for activity Coenzymes: organic molecules (e.g., NAD⁺, FAD, vitamins) required for activity Types of enzyme regulation: Competitive inhibition: Molecule competes with substrate for the active site Can be overcome by increasing substrate concentration Allosteric regulation: Molecule binds elsewhere (allosteric site) → changes enzyme shape → affects activity Positive allosteric regulation: increases activity Negative allosteric regulation: decreases activity Feedback inhibition: End product of a pathway inhibits an earlier enzyme in the pathway Prevents overproduction of the product
89
Methyl group structure polairty
R-CH3 nonpolar/hydrophobic
90
phosphate gorup structure polairty
R-O-POs polar/hydriphlic
91
amino group structure polairty
R-NH2 polar/hrdrophlic acts as a base
92
carboxyl group structure polairty
R-C(double bond O)-OH polar/hydrophlic acts as a acid
93
carbonyl group structure polairty
R-CHO: aldeyhde R-CO-R: keytsone polar/hydrophlic
94
hrdroxly group structure polairty
R-O-H polar/hydrophlic