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Describe the polar and non-polar nature of functional groups and their importance.
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Polar functional groups are hydrophilic and water-soluble, affecting molecule function and interaction. Non-polar groups are hydrophobic and play roles in molecular stability and identity.
Define hydrocarbons and give two examples.
Hydrocarbons are molecules consisting solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms. Examples include methane and ethane.
How do the functional groups hydroxyl and carbonyl differ in structure and function?
The hydroxyl group (OH) is found in alcohols and sugars, contributing to solubility. The carbonyl group (C=O) can form aldehydes or ketones, affecting reactivity and boiling points.
Contrast dehydration synthesis with hydrolysis.
Dehydration synthesis forms bonds by removing water, while hydrolysis breaks bonds by adding water, such as during digestion.
How is energy transfer in cells facilitated by the phosphate group?
The phosphate group (PO4) is crucial in energy transfer, especially in ATP, by storing and releasing energy during cellular processes.
How does the structure of estradiol differ from testosterone, and what does this indicate?
Estradiol and testosterone differ in functional groups, indicating that even small structural changes can result in significant differences in biological function.
What distinguishes methyl groups from other functional groups?
Methyl groups (CH3) are non-polar, affecting the hydrophobic nature of molecules and their interactions.
Discuss the process of dehydration synthesis.
Dehydration synthesis is a process where water is removed to form covalent bonds, linking monomers into polymers.
Explain why the amino group can act as a base.
The amino group (NH2) can act as a base by picking up hydrogen ions, which increases the pH and affects protein structure.
Explain the difference between structural isomers and give an example.
Structural isomers have the same molecular formula but differ in the arrangement of their atoms. An example is butane and isobutane.
Why are only 40-50 parts used to form diverse organic molecules?
A limited set of building blocks can be arranged in numerous ways to produce a diverse array of complex organic molecules, illustrating the versatility of carbon-based chemistry.
What is the significance of carbon's ability to form four covalent bonds in organic compounds?
Carbon's ability to form four covalent bonds allows it to create large, stable, and complex molecules, making it essential for the diversity of organic compounds.
What is meant by macromolecules being formed by subunits called monomers?
Macromolecules are large molecules composed of smaller, repeating units known as monomers, which are linked together through covalent bonds to build complex structures.
What role does the carboxyl group play in acids, and why is it considered ionizable?
The carboxyl group (COOH) donates hydrogen ions in solutions, making it ionizable and contributing to the acidity of compounds.
What are the main classes of organic molecules, and how are they similar?
The main classes are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. They are similar in being composed of carbon-based structures and playing key roles in biological functions.
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