CHEMICALS OF LIFEp. 74- 78

ELEMENTS AND COMPOUNDS

Elements Any substance that cannot be broken down

into simpler substances (ex. Carbon, Oxygen)

Compounds Two or more elements chemically combine Ex. CO2

WATER!!!

Two hydrogen and one oxygen atom H2O

Water makes up 2/3 of your body Dissolves chemicals that cells need Most chemical reactions could not take

place without water Helps cells keep their shape and size Helps regulate cell temperature

ORGANIC VS. INORGANIC

Carbon is the key.

When a compound contains CARBON, it is ORGANIC.

If a compound does not contain CARBON, it is INORGANIC

CARBOHYDRATES Energy rich compound made of carbon,

hydrogen, and oxygen (provides quick energy) Ex. Sugars and starches are carbohydrates Pasta, rice, bread, fruit

Uses: Cellulose is found in cell walls of plants Cell membranes

Organic or Inorganic?

LIPIDS Energy rich compounds made of carbon,

hydrogen, and oxygen Have more energy than carbohydrates

Cells store energy for use later Ex. Hibernating bear

Also, makes up part of cell membrane, protects/cushions/insulates

Examples: Fats, oils, waxes Organic or Inorganic?

PROTEINS Large molecules made of carbon, hydrogen,

oxygen, and nitrogen Foods that are high in protein:

Meat, eggs, fish, nuts, and beans Structure:

Amino acids! Proteins are made of amino acids 20 common amino acids can combine/link

together to make thousands of different proteins Letters of the alphabet

Function: Proteins form parts of cell membranes and many

organelles inside (parts inside the cell), provide energy and build tissue

Enzymes (types of proteins) : help to speed up chemical reactions Without enzymes many chemical reactions would take

too long

Organic or Inorganic?

NUCLEIC ACIDS Made of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen,

nitrogen, and phosphorus Two types:

DNA: deoxyribonucleic acids Carries the genetic information that is passed

from parent to offspring Found only in the nucleus

RNA: ribonucleic acids Plays an important role in production of proteins Found in the cytoplasm and the nucleus

Organic or Inorganic?