| Term | Definition |
|---|
| element | substance that can't be broken down into simpler chemical substances |
| atom | smallest particle of an element that has the characteristics of that element ; basic building block of all matter |
| nucleus | (1) the center of an atom containing neutrons and protons (2) the centrally-bound organelle that manages cellular functions and contains DNA |
| compound | substance composed of atoms of two or more different elements that are chemically combined |
| covalent bond | chemical bond formed when two or more atoms share electrons |
| molecule | group of atoms held together by covalent bonds; no overall charge |
| ion | atom of group of atoms that gain or lose electrons; has an electrical charge |
| ionic bond | chemical bond formed by the attractive forces between two ions of opposite charge |
| metabolism | all of the chemical reactions that occur within an organism |
| diffusion | random movement of particles from a high concentration to a lower concentration until it reaches a dynamic equilibrium |
| dynamic equilibrium | result of diffusion where there is continuous movement of particles but no overall change in concentration |
| polymer | large molecule formed when many smaller molecules bond together |
| carbohydrates | organic compound used by cells to store and release energy |
| lipids | organic compounds used for energy storage, insulation and membranes; includes fats, oils, waxes and steroids |
| proteins | large polymer that provides structure for tissues and organs and helps carry out cell metabolism |
| amino acid | basic building blocks of proteins |
| peptide bond | covalent bond formed between amino acids |
| enzyme | type of protein found in all living things that changes the rate of a reaction |
| nucleic acid | complex biomolocules such as RNA and DNA that store cellular information in the form of a code |
| nucleotide | subunits of nucleic acids that form a simple sugar, a phosphate group and a nitrogenous base |
Combine with other sets
Share on Facebook
Share on MySpace