The Human Organism
Is homeostasis a dynamic or static process? Why?
Homeostasis is a dynamic process. The variables fluctuate around the setpoint, it is not constant.
What is the element defined by?
The element is defined by the number of protons it has.
What does a buffer do and how does it work?
opposes the change of pH by binding to the free hydrogens
What is osmotic pressure?
force needed to prevent water from moving across the membrane by osmosis
In your own words, what is homeostasis?
an almost stable internal environment in the body so that cells can be the most efficient
What is an isotope? What varies in the different forms?
An isotope is 2 or more forms of the same element. They have a different number of neutrons, but the same number of electrons and protons.
What is potential energy? What is chemical energy?
potential energy is stored in chemical bonds and could do work if it was released. Chemical energy is a form of potential energy that is released when chemical bonds break.
What is a mechanically-gated channel?
an ion channel that opens when physically moved, stretched, vibrated etc.
What is differentiation? What is morphogenesis?
Differentiation is the change from general to specific. Morphogenesis is the change in shape of tissues or organs.
Describe ionic bonding
Atoms exchange electrons and binding happens because of opposite charges.
Define acid and base
An acid is a proton donor or a substance that releases hydrogen ions. A base is a proton acceptor or a substance that binds to hydrogen ions.
What is a voltage-gated ion channel?
an ion channel that opens when there is a change in charge across the plasma membrane
What is negative feedback and what is an example?
The body responds by adjusting up or down to return to the setpoint. Ex: blood sugar or blood pressure
Describe covalent bonding
Atoms share one or more pairs of electrons.
Compare saturated and unsaturated fats.
Saturated fats have all single bonds, a more rigid structure, and are full of hydrogens. Unsaturated fats have double bonds, a more relaxed structure, and do not have hydrogens in every spot.
Define isotonic, hypertonic, and hypotonic solutions
Isotonic the cell doesn’t shrink or swell. Hypertonic the cell shrinks. Hypotonic the cell swells.
What is positive feedback and what is an example?
The body responds by moving further away from the setpoint. Ex: childbirth or blood clotting
Describe hydrogen bonding
a positively charged Hydrogen binds to ONLY Oxygen, Nitrogen, or Fluorine.
Explain the differences between a synthesis and decomposition reaction.
Synthesis is when 2 or more reactants come together to form a larger product. Chemical bonds are made and energy is stored in the bonds. Decomposition is when a large reactant is broken down to form smaller products. Chemical bonds are broken and energy is released.
What type of transport moves against the concentration gradient (low to high)?
active transport