Portage Biochemistry Module 1 Exam Well Explained Questions And Answers

Portage Biochemistry Module 1 Exam Definition of biochemistry - Answer-chemistry of life; how properties of organisms relate to their molecules What are the 3 things biochemists study? - Answer-1. The relationship between structure and function of biomolecules 2. Chemical reactions of organisms (metabolism) 3. Communication within and among organisms What are bulk elements? - Answer-Elements that are abundant in living organisms What are trace elements? - Answer-Elements that are less abundant in organisms but still crucial for life Name the bulk elements (10) - Answer-H, Na, K, Ca, C, N, O, P, S, Cl Name the trace elements (13) - Answer-Mg, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mo, W, Se, I What's another word for a firefly? - Answer-Lightning bug Explain the chemical reaction of lightning bugs - Answer-The chemical reaction is called bioluminescence. Proteins regulate, produce, and degrade the light-emitting compound called luciferin. Luciferin, when acted upon by a protein, glows as bugs move. This chemical reaction is regulated by the protein (enzyme) called luciferase. How many naturally occurring elements exist? How many are found in living organisms and what kind of elements? - Answer-90 naturally occurring elements, less than 30 elements are found in living organisms. Most of these 30 elements are smaller non-metals. Why are smaller elements favored for living organisms? - Answer-They can form stable, covalent bonds How are strong bonds formed? - Answer-Strong bonds form by significant overlap of atoms, such as carbon and hydrogen, permitting them to share electrons Why is the strong bond good for living organisms? - Answer-The bond that forms requires significant energy to break it. This means the bonds can withstand mechanical and thermal pressures through the growth of hair/skin for protection.