Biology 113 - Autumn 2011: Midterm, Review
This review should not be by any means your only study resource; the purpose of
this document is to summarize some of the fundamental concepts in cellular
biology you should be familiar with.
Part 1. Chemical context of life
What you should know: characteristics and major functions of
macromolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids).
You should be able to: relate this knowledge to examples in biology.
1.1. General concepts
a. Atom structure: electron distribution, isomers.
b. Chemical bonds: Covalent, ionic, Hydrogen bonds, Van der Waals
c. Properties of water molecules: Polarity and hydrogen bonds, cohesion,
adhesion, specific heat, ice proprieties, solvency (hydrogen bonds and
interaction with ionic and nonionic polar molecules). Water molecules are
important in thermoregulation of plants and animals.
d. Proprieties of carbon: Isomers (structural, geometric, enantiomers) and
Chemical functional groups (Hydroxyl, Carboxyl, Carbonyl, Amino, Sulfhydryl,
Phosphate and Methyl).
Polymers and monomers: synthesis and break down (dehydration and
monomer structure (carbonyl group and several hydroxyl
groups), linear and ring forms of monosaccharides, primary functions (Fuel,
energy storage, strengthen), memorize some examples.
Not considered true macromolecules. Grouped together because they
don’t mix with water.
: structure (Glycerol + fatty acid(s)), saturated and unsaturated,
functions (energy source).
: structure (Glycerol + 2 fatty acids + phosphate group),
functions (cell membrane).