Tutor profile: Elvira D.

What is the difference between an ionic and a covalent bond?

An ionic bond usually occurs between a metal and a non-metal. In an ionic bond, 1, 2, or 3 electrons are transferred from one or more atoms to another atom. On the other hand, a covalent bond involves the sharing of electrons between the atoms forming the molecule. It can occur between an element itself (Cl-Cl) or between an element and another element (H-Cl).

Why is the study of the quaternary structure of a protein important?

The quaternary structure or three-dimensional structure of a protein is formed due to the various bonds between the elements it consists of. The protein does function or malfunctions if the protein is denatured or destroyed. Studying the 3D shape of a protein provides insight into the targets it interacts with. For example, studying the structure of the protein pepsin, an enzyme, shows us that it targets protein to break them down into polypeptides.

What is the importance of fertilization?

Fertilization is the union of male and female gametes to form a zygote. Because the gametes resulted from meiosis, they are haploid - that is, they consist of half the number of chromosomes the resulting organism should have. Upon union, the zygote receives half the chromosomes from the sperm cell, the male gamete, and the other half from the oocyte or ovule, the female gamete. As a result, the zygote is diploid. Therefore, fertilization is important to restore the number of chromosomes in a species, or else, the species would become extinct.