Buffers These are chemicals, or mixtures of chemicals that keep pH steady by absorbing extra H or OH molecules. Bicarbonate Is one of the bodies major buffers E.g. bicarbonate in tums. Acid rain is particularly devastating in lakes and soils where there is a shortage of limestone to buffer the acid. Molecules of life Organic molecules are generally associated with living organisms. A carbohydrate is a simple sugar, or a larger molecule composed of sugar units.
Carbohydrates serve as an energy source or have structural roles.
These simple sugars are soluble in water and may be sweet-tasting. These are also made from glucose molecules, but they are stuck together in different ways. Also imporatant in insulation from heat-loss and for cushioning important organs. They are non-polar so they are hydrophobic. Oils are lipids that are liquid at room temperature.