Course Outline
CHM 305 Basic Biochemistry
May 1999
Department: Chemistry and Physical Sciences
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite: CHM/CHL 302 or approval of instructor
General Education: 7.1 Scientific Literacy
College Learning Outcomes: Scientific Literacy 7a-d, Critical Thinking 2a,b
Course Description
Includes the chemistry of living systems, considers carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and
proteins.
Purpose of the Course
To introduce the student to the basic concepts and language of biochemistry.
College Learning Outcomes and Objectives:
L.O. 7 Scientific Literacy โ Graduates can demonstrate an understanding of natural
and behavioral scientific principles, technology, and methods.
a. They can distinguish between the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of
natural phenomena.
b. They can apply scientific principles and methods to support or disprove hypotheses.
c. They can use theories to explain past observations and to predict answers to new
questions.
d. They can understand the uses of scientific technology and their implications.
L.O. 2 Critical Thinking Ability โ Graduates can analyze issues and theories rationally,
logically, and coherently using both qualitative and quantitative information.
a. They can demonstrate an explicit understanding of principles of critical thought.
b. They can demonstrate the ability to reflect on issues and/or theories systematically
Course Objectives
In order to gain mastery in the field of biochemistry, the student should be able to:
1. Identify the four major classes of biological molecules. (L.O. 7a)
2. Understand protein structure and the role it plays in the function of proteins. (L.O. 7a-
d, 2a, 2b)
3. Explain enzyme kinetics. (L.O. 7a-d, 2a, 2b)
4. Understand metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. (L.O. 7a-c, 2a, 2b)
5. Explain the electron transport chain, oxidative phosphorylation and Kreb's cycle. (L.O.
7a-c, 2a, 2b)
6. Explain the roles of DNA and RNA in heredity. (L.O. 7a-d, 2a, 2b)
Topical Outline
I. Water, pH and Ionic Equilibria
A. Properties of water
B. pH
1. Dissociation of strong electrolytes
2. Dissociation of weak electrolytes
3. Henderson-Hasselbach equation
4. Titration curves
C. Buffers
II. Amino acids
