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 Coenzymes

GOB Chemistry

21. The Generation of Biochemical Energy

Intro to Coenzymes

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1:29 minutes

Problem 33b

Textbook Question

Which of the following is a cofactor and which is a coenzyme?
b. Tetrahydrofolate

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the difference between a cofactor and a coenzyme: A cofactor is a non-protein chemical compound or metallic ion that is required for an enzyme's activity. Cofactors can be either inorganic (e.g., metal ions like Mg²⁺ or Zn²⁺) or organic. A coenzyme, on the other hand, is a specific type of organic cofactor that is loosely bound to the enzyme and often acts as a carrier of chemical groups or electrons during enzymatic reactions.

Identify the nature of tetrahydrofolate: Tetrahydrofolate (THF) is an organic molecule derived from folic acid (vitamin B9). It plays a critical role in the transfer of one-carbon units in metabolic reactions, such as DNA synthesis and amino acid metabolism.

Determine if tetrahydrofolate is a cofactor or coenzyme: Since tetrahydrofolate is an organic molecule that assists enzymes by transferring chemical groups (specifically one-carbon units), it is classified as a coenzyme.

Relate tetrahydrofolate to its biological function: Tetrahydrofolate is essential in processes like the synthesis of purines and thymidylate, which are necessary for DNA replication and repair. This further supports its role as a coenzyme.

Conclude: Based on its organic nature and its role in enzymatic reactions, tetrahydrofolate is a coenzyme, not a general cofactor.

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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 zinc or magnesium, 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 chemical groups during enzymatic reactions. Unlike cofactors, coenzymes are often altered during the reaction and need to be regenerated for continued enzyme activity.

Tetrahydrofolate

Tetrahydrofolate is a coenzyme derived from folate (vitamin B9) and plays a crucial role in the transfer of one-carbon units in various metabolic processes, including DNA synthesis and amino acid metabolism. It is essential for the proper functioning of enzymes involved in these pathways, making it a vital coenzyme in cellular metabolism.

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