F212 Biology Notes:

Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health

2.1.1 Biological Molecules

(a) describe how hydrogen bonding occurs between water molecules, and
relate this, and other properties of water, to the roles of water in living
organisms (HSW1);
Hydrogen bonds:
Hydrogen atoms have a small positive charge.
Oxygen atoms has small negative charge.
Electron sharing is not equal.
Charges mean water molecules are attracted to each other.

High specific heat capacity:
Lot of heat required to raise temperature.
Helps body maintain constant temperature keeps enzymes working.

Solid less dense than liquid:
Bodies of water freeze from the top down provides insulation for
organisms.

Water is a good solvent:
Dissolves polar molecules and ions.
Molecules separated reactions (e.g. metabolic) easier to take place.

Organises non-polar molecules:
Hydrophilic and hydrophobic parts.
Specific shapes formation of membranes.

Water can form ions:
Can be used in chemical reactions such as photosynthesis.

High heat of vaporisation:
Evaporation causes cooling of surface. E.g. sweating.