Introduction to biochemistry

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Metabolic pathways

Refers to the multiple steps and reactions that go on in biological organisms

When a compound is synthesised

Anabolism- endothermic

When a compound is broken down

Catabolism- exothermic

Factors affecting metabolic processes

pH- maintained by buffers

Temperature-

Concentration- maintained by the passive or active transport of compounds or ions in and out of the cell.

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Respiration and photosynthesis

The primary source of energy for all consumers is glucose, a type of carbohydrate.

Glucose is synthesized as shown below in photosynthesis

6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2 ΔHo = +2803 kJ mol-1

A molecule of alpha-glucose is made during photosynthesis.

Glucose is formed using energy from the sun, making it an endothermic process.

Respiration breaks down the primary glucose molecule

C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O ΔHo = -2803 kJ mol-1

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Condensation and hydrolysis

Condensation is the removal of oh and h of two molecules forming water and joining the two molecules together

often heat and an acidic environment are required for condensation reactions to occur. The heat and acid help with the removal and isolation of the water molecule, preventing the reverse reaction, hydrolysis, from occurring.