Chapter 2: Chemistry of Life

2.1 Atoms, Ions, and Molecules

Essential Idea: All living things are based on atoms and their interactions.

Understandings:

• Living things consist of atoms of different elements.
• Ions form when atoms gain or lose electrons.
• Atoms share pairs of electrons in covalent bonds.

Study Guide

That's Why Carbon Is A Tramp- Crash Course Biology #1

Applications and skills:

2.2 Properties of Water

Essential Idea: Water’s unique properties allow life to exist on Earth.

Understandings:

• Life depends on hydrogen bonds in water.
• Many compounds dissolve in water.
• Some compounds form acids or bases.

Study Guide

Water - Liquid Awesome- Crash Course Biology #2

Applications and skills:

Skill: Testing pH

2.3 Carbon-Based Molecules

Essential Idea: Carbon-based molecules are the foundation of life.

Understandings:

• Carbon atoms have unique bonding properties.
• Four main types of carbon-based molecules are found in living things.

Study Guide

Biological Molecules - You Are What You Eat- Crash Course Biology #3

Applications and skills:

Application: Biological Molecules

2.4 Chemical Reactions

Essential Idea: Life depends on chemical reactions.

Understandings:

• Bonds break and form during chemical reactions.
• Chemical reactions release or absorb energy.

Study Guide

Applications and skills:

2.5 Enzymes

Essential Idea: Enzymes are catalysts for chemical reactions in living things.

Understandings:

• A catalyst lowers activation energy.
• Enzymes allow chemical reactions to occur under tightly controlled conditions.

Study Guide

Applications and skills:

Application: Enzymes