Microbiology - Chapter 5

Catabolic pathways are ________

exergonic (release energy)

What is the defining characteristic of a redox reaction? A.)Electrons are transferred from an electron donor to an electron acceptor. B.) Reduction reactions first release an electron and then later oxidation reactions accept the electron. C.)Oxygen is created as one of the products.

A

Metabolism

All of the chemical reactions that occur within an organism

What class of biochemical reactions generally release energy?

Decomposition reactions

Oxidation is the ________, and reduction is the ________.

Loss, Gain

Anabolism

Metabolic pathways build molecules, requiring energy. (Simple molecule --> Complex molecule)

Catabolism

Metabolic pathways that break down molecules, releasing energy in the form of ATP (Complex molecules --> Simple molecule)

Why are acceptor molecules said to be reduced when they are gaining electrons?

Since electrons are negatively charged the gain of electron brings down the total molecule charge

Why is it difficult for protons (H+) to move across phospholipid bilayer membranes?

The positive charge on protons prevents them from passing through the hydrophobic interior of membranes.

Anabolic pathways are _________

endergonic (require energy)

Large carbohydrates, such as starch and glycogen, are polymers. What monomers compose large carbohydrates?

monosaccarides