Hydrocarbons: Organics, Alkanes,enes,ynes, Petrochemicals, Energy, Bonds

Organic Compounds Organic Compound: defined as many compounds that contain covalently-bonded carbon atoms.  They form the basis of life, and are obtained from living sources (i.e. your skin bones and hair.) Inorganic Compound: compounds other than organic compounds.  There are a few exceptions, however, and they include some compounds and polyatomic ions that contain only…

Spices: History, Benefits, Ginger & Cinnamon

For many centuries, spices and herbs have played an important role in many aspects of everyday life including cooking or medicinal purposes. Currently it is used as an alternative to treat different ailments and bacterial infections. Medicinal properties of spices and herbs may vary considerably depending on their molecular structure. Zingiber officinale (ginger) is a…

Energy Production: Primary production, Gross primary production, Net primary production

The term ecosystem was first used by Tansley (1935) to refer to all the components of an ecological system, biotic and abiotic, that influence the flow of energy and elements. The ecosystem concept integrates ecology with other disciplines such as geochemistry, hydrology, and atmospheric science. Primary production is the chemical energy generated by autotrophs during…

Honey & Antibiotic Properties: Manuka & Ulmo

Historically, honey has been used by humans to treat a variety of ailments through topical application, but only recently have the antiseptic and antibacterial properties of honey been chemically explained. Hydrogen peroxide is formed in a slow-release manner by the enzyme glucose oxidase present in honey. It becomes active only when honey is diluted, requires…

Mutualism and Commensalism

Positive interactions occur when neither species is harmed and the benefits of the interaction are greater than the costs for at least one species. Facilitation is a synonym for positive interactions. Mutualism: Mutually beneficial interaction between individuals of two species (+/+). Commensalism: Individuals of one species benefit, while individuals of the other species do not…