Overview

This unit introduces the student to the chemistry of organic molecules and the biochemistry of cells. We examine the role of functional groups in biological molecules of biomedical importance and common reactions in metabolism. We reinforce concepts of ionisation and pH. We discuss the chemistry of proteins and their physical … For more content click the Read More button below.

Offerings

S1-01-CLAYTON-ON-CAMPUS
S1-FF-CLAYTON-FLEXIBLE

Rules

Enrolment Rule

Contacts

Chief Examiner(s)

Associate Professor Elizabeth Davis

Unit Coordinator(s)

Dr Nirma Samarawickrema

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you should be able to:
1.

Identify the chemical and biochemical aspects of functional groups in biological molecules.

2.

Explain the common reactions found in metabolic systems such as oxidation-reduction, bond formation, bond breaking events and a knowledge of the role of water.

3.

Explain the role of equilibrium and kinetic processes in biology and apply these to the concepts of enzyme catalysis.

4.

Predict the thermodynamics of metabolic reactions.

5.

Describe how energy is generated and utilised from carbohydrates and lipids and integrate and translate this to different situations.

6.

Investigate and communicate, reactions of biomedical importance in normal and disease states

Assessment summary

  • End of semester exam (3 hours and 10 minutes) (60%) (Hurdle)
  • Assessment during semester which can include small group session marks, directed learning exercises and on-line quizzes (25%) (online quizzes are less than 10%)
  • Mid-semester test (15%)

Assessment in this unit includes hurdle assessment tasks. Failure of any hurdle assessment task may result in failure of the unit.

Workload requirements

Workload

Availability in areas of study

Biomedical science