Atom, Electrons, Molecular Polar, Water Polarity, Biomacromolecules, Cells, and Metabolism

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Reflection Journal
What is an atom?
Atom is the smallest unit of matter and the defining structure of an element. It is made up of three components, namely, protons, neutrons, and electrons. Electrons are made up of even smaller particles called quarks (Sharp, 2019). Conditions for the formation of quarks and electrons improved when the hot, dense new universe cooled (Sharp, 2019). Quarks combine to make protons and neutrons, which then combine to form nuclei (Sharp, 2019). Atoms can be split up into fragments due to their smaller particles. However, once this happens, the parts are no longer part of the same chemical composition.
Why are electrons important?
In the electronics sector, electrons play a vital role and ensure that devices can operate optimally. The small particles can carry electric current through circuits and conductors as they move from the negatively charged ends to positively charged ends. The negatively charged ends usually have extra electrons, while those with a positive charge require more electrons. Therefore, the electron is able to move from one end to another and create currents through a system. In addition to allowing electricity flow, the electron is also vital because they assist atoms to bond. Atomic bonding occurs because of the presence of electrons, such as the development of covalent bonds between atoms. Another bonding that is aided by electrons is ionic bonding, which is facilitated by an atom giving up an electron to another atom.
What makes a molecule polar?
A polar covalent link connects two diatomic molecules. Poles are the two electrically charged regions on either end of the molecule, similar to the north and south poles (Bishop, n.d.). In the presence of an electric field, polar molecules orient themselves with the positive ends of the molecules attracted to the negative plate and the negative ends of the molecules attracted to the positive plate (Bishop, n.d.).
Why is the polarity of water important?
The polarity of water is significant because it makes it an excellent solvent. Water has a high affinity for forming bonds with other molecules, including it. Water’s polarity enables it to engage with non-polar compounds like fatty acids. Water and fatty acids combine to form compartmentalizing membranes, which are the basic building blocks of life. Capillary action, caused by hydrogen bonding, assists trees in absorbing water, allowing them to grow quite large.
List and describe the four types of biomacromolecules.
Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids are the key types of biomacromolecules. Carbohydrates are biomolecules that are mostly made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Carbohydrates are divided into various types based on the number of monomer units they contain. Lipids are made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen and are similar to carbs in that they are made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. H...