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Describe one key property of water that contributes to its high surface tension.
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Water has high surface tension due to hydrogen bonding between water molecules.
Explain the role of nucleic acids within cells.
Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, store genetic information and are involved in protein synthesis.
In atomic structure, what is the role of electrons, and where are they located?
Electrons have a negative charge and orbit in shells around the nucleus of an atom.
Which six elements make up the majority of the composition of living organisms?
Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, Oxygen, Phosphorus, and Sulfur.
How do enzymes speed up chemical reactions?
Enzymes reduce the activation energy required for reactions, acting as catalysts without being consumed.
What defines the major difference between a molecule and a compound?
A molecule consists of two or more of the same atom, while a compound consists of two or more different atoms.
How do buffers help maintain pH balance in the body?
Buffers minimize changes in pH by reacting with excess H+ or OH- ions to stabilize the environment.
What is the difference between an ionic and a covalent bond?
Ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons, while covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons.
What is the optimal environmental condition for enzyme activity?
Enzymes operate best at specific temperatures and pH levels suited to their environment.
Why is ice less dense than liquid water, allowing it to float?
In ice, water molecules form a lattice structure due to hydrogen bonding, making it less dense than liquid water.
How does saturation affect enzyme reaction rates?
Once enzymes are saturated with substrate, increasing substrate concentration no longer increases the reaction rate.
What distinguishes exergonic reactions from endergonic reactions?
Exergonic reactions release energy, whereas endergonic reactions require an input of energy.
What is the primary structure of a lipid and its significance in energy storage?
Lipids generally consist of fatty acids and glycerol, storing energy efficiently for long-term use.
What components make up ATP and what is its role in cell biology?
ATP is composed of adenosine and three phosphate groups and serves as the primary energy carrier in cells.
Differentiate between simple and complex carbohydrates with examples.
Simple carbohydrates are monosaccharides (e.g., glucose), while complex carbohydrates are polysaccharides (e.g., glycogen).
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