![](/olcweb/styles/shared/spacer.gif) | ![](/sites/dl/free/0072320427/title/cover_image.JPG) Foundations in Microbiology, 4/e Kathleen Park Talaro,
Pasadena City College Arthur Talaro
From Atoms to Cells: A Chemical Connection
Chapter Overview- The understanding of living cells and processes is enhanced by a knowledge of chemistry.
- The structure and function of all matter in the universe is based on atoms.
- Atoms have unique structures and properties that allow chemical reactions to occur.
- Atoms contain protons, neutrons, and electrons in combinations to form elements.
- Living things are composed of approximately 25 different elements.
- Elements interact to form bonds that result in molecules and compounds with different characteristics than the elements that form them.
- Atoms can show variations in charge and polarity.
- Atoms and molecules undergo chemical reactions such as oxidation/reduction, ionization, and dissolution.
- The properties of carbon have been critical in forming macromolecules of life such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids.
- The nature of macromolecule structure and shape dictates its functions.
- Cells carry out fundamental activities of life, such as growth, metabolism, reproduction, synthesis, and transport, that are all essentially chemical reactions on a grand scale.
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