Question

1. Why do you think that the first thing you learn about in a Biology course is Chemistry?  

How does learning chemistry apply to Biology?

2. What makes water so important to life?

3. What are the four biological molecules found in your cells and what are the building blocks for each of these molecules?

Answer 1

1. The origin of life, in itself, is biochemical in nature. The famous Miller-Urey experiment demonstrated that using simple chemicals already present on the Earth, like hydrogen and nitrogen, organic compounds necessary for life could be synthesised. In other words, life began as a "chemical soup". In order to study about life, i.e. biology, it thus makes sense to start with the chemical building blocks.

Chemistry manifests itself in all aspects of biology. The nerve impulses are transmitted via chemical reactions; breathing involves exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide and their relative solubility in the blood; photosynthesis, the ultimate source of food for all living beings is in its essemes a chemical reaction. Clearly, chemistry pervades biology and a good grasp of chemical reactions and processes can simplify one's understanding of biology as well.

2. Water is rightfully called as the "elixir of life". It acts as a universal solvent, and it is a medium for innumerable chemical reactions that take place in the body. Humans are composed of 70% water by weight; perspiration of water also helps in thermoregulation of the body. Water also helps in excretion and detoxification of the body. It is necessary for the growth of plants as well. Clearly, water is one of the most important chemicals for life.

3.

Carbohydrates. Made up of glucose

Fats. Made up of Fatty acids and Glycerol

Proteins . Made up of amino acids

DNA . Made up of nucleotides