HTHSCI 1LL3 Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: Alkalosis, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Conjugate Acid
29 Apr 2016
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Document Summary
It performs many functions: transport, component of chemical reactions, and control of body temperature. Body water is almost constant at about 60% of our weight. Adipose tissue contains little water, so obese individuals have less body water, children. The shared electrons of the h-o bond are attracted to the oxygen molecule. This gives the h atoms a partial positive charge. It also gives the oxygen atom a partial negative charge. The polarity of water allows polar molecules to dissolve. H bonds are formed with polar compounds and hydration shells surround ions. H bonds are weak, constantly breaking and reforming so that solutes can move in solution and water can move through pores in cell membranes. Water helps maintain body temperature in the narrow range compatible with life. It is resistant to temperature change and can dissipate heat from areas that generate it such as the brain.
