Biological Chemistry 2.1

This module focuses on bio-organic substances, the major organic chemicals found in living systems. It examines the basic structure and function of lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, enzymes, vitamins and nucleic acids and builds upon knowledge developed in Organic Chemistry 2.1 regarding functional groups and reactions. Biological Chemistry 2.1 provides students with real-life applications and examples of organic molecules that they may interact with on a daily basis, such as food, medicine, plants, and the human body. Laboratory experiments demonstrating the behaviour of some bio-organic molecules are also carried out.

1. Draw structures to represent structural forms of simple carbohydrates and write equations to illustrate their reactions.

2. Describe the major structural features of various types of lipids and their roles in living systems.

3. Draw structures to represent amino acids and simple peptides and describe the various levels of protein structure.

4. Outline the roles of enzymes and vitamins in living systems.

5. Describe the essential structural features of both DNA and RNA and outline the major steps in protein synthesis.

6. Use laboratory apparatus and equipment to observe chemical properties and behaviour of some bioorganic molecules and apply theoretical understanding in post-lab analysis/reporting