Table of contents

1. Matter and Measurements4h 31m
2. Atoms and the Periodic Table5h 23m
3. Ionic Compounds2h 18m
4. Molecular Compounds2h 18m
5. Classification & Balancing of Chemical Reactions3h 17m
6. Chemical Reactions & Quantities2h 27m
7. Energy, Rate and Equilibrium3h 46m
8. Gases, Liquids and Solids3h 25m
9. Solutions4h 10m
10. Acids and Bases3h 29m
11. Nuclear Chemistry56m
BONUS: Lab Techniques and Procedures1h 38m
BONUS: Mathematical Operations and Functions47m
12. Introduction to Organic Chemistry1h 34m
13. Alkenes, Alkynes, and Aromatic Compounds2h 12m
14. Compounds with Oxygen or Sulfur1h 6m
15. Aldehydes and Ketones1h 1m
16. Carboxylic Acids and Their Derivatives1h 11m
17. Amines39m
18. Amino Acids and Proteins1h 51m
19. Enzymes1h 37m
20. Carbohydrates1h 41m
21. The Generation of Biochemical Energy2h 8m
22. Carbohydrate Metabolism2h 22m
23. Lipids2h 26m
24. Lipid Metabolism1h 45m
25. Protein and Amino Acid Metabolism1h 37m
26. Nucleic Acids and Protein Synthesis2h 54m

21. The Generation of Biochemical Energy

Intro to Cofactors

GOB Chemistry

21. The Generation of Biochemical Energy

Intro to Cofactors

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1:49 minutes

Problem 35a

Textbook Question

Which of the following is a cofactor and which is a coenzyme?
a. Fe²⁺

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the definitions: A cofactor is a non-protein chemical compound or metallic ion that is required for an enzyme's activity as a catalyst. Cofactors can be inorganic ions (e.g., metal ions like Fe²⁺) or organic molecules. A coenzyme, on the other hand, is a specific type of cofactor that is an organic molecule, often derived from vitamins, and assists enzymes in catalysis.

Analyze the given substance: Fe²⁺ is an inorganic ion, specifically a metal ion. It is not an organic molecule, so it cannot be classified as a coenzyme.

Determine the classification: Since Fe²⁺ is an inorganic ion and not an organic molecule, it is classified as a cofactor rather than a coenzyme.

Relate to biological context: Fe²⁺ often acts as a cofactor in various enzymatic reactions, such as those involving electron transfer (e.g., in cytochromes) or oxygen transport (e.g., in hemoglobin).

Conclude: Based on the definitions and analysis, Fe²⁺ is a cofactor, not a coenzyme.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Cofactors

Cofactors are non-protein chemical compounds that assist enzymes in catalyzing reactions. They can be metal ions, such as iron (Fe<sup>2+</sup>), or organic molecules. Cofactors are essential for the activity of many enzymes, as they help stabilize enzyme-substrate complexes or participate directly in the chemical reaction.

Coenzymes

Coenzymes are a specific type of cofactor that are organic molecules, often derived from vitamins. They bind to enzymes and assist in the transfer of specific atoms or functional groups during biochemical reactions. Unlike cofactors, coenzymes are typically not permanently attached to the enzyme and can be reused in multiple reactions.

Enzyme Function

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms. They lower the activation energy required for reactions to occur, allowing metabolic processes to proceed efficiently. Understanding the role of cofactors and coenzymes is crucial, as they are integral to the proper functioning of enzymes and overall metabolic pathways.