Chapter 2

Chemistry of Life

Objectives

• Understand the structure of atoms
• Know the difference between atomic number and atomic mass
• Understand the role electrons play in the bonding properties of an atom
• Understand variations in atomic structure – isotopes and ion
• Understand the differences between covalent and ionic bonds
• Be able to list and explain the properties of water (physical and chemical)
• Background on pH and the pH scale
• Major differences between acids and bases
• Know functional groups
• Understand differences between the four large biological macromolecules
• Know the basic building blocks for each biological macromolecules
• Role of enzymes in living things
• Discuss the various types of chemical reactions