Biological molecules Key Terms

Inorganic ions

Charged particles that do not contain carbon, essential for various biological functions.

Electrolytes

Ions in solution that conduct electricity and are crucial for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

Ion

An atom or molecule that has a net electrical charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons.

Concentration

The abundance of a particular substance in a given volume of solution, influencing its biological activity.

Hydrogen ion (H+)

A positively charged ion formed when a hydrogen atom loses its electron, playing a key role in determining pH.

pH

A logarithmic scale used to specify the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, ranging from 0 (acidic) to 14 (alkaline).

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that binds oxygen for transport.

Co-transport

A mechanism that moves two substances across a membrane in the same direction, utilizing the gradient of one to drive the transport of the other.