Universitat Internacional de Catalunya
Chemistry/Biochemistry
Other languages of instruction: Catalan, Spanish
Teaching staff
Students can make an appointment with the teacher when they deem convenient through the email: mamateos@uic.es
Introduction
The subject of Chemistry-Biochemistry is vital for the understanding of most biological phenomena. The subject covers from the study of the composition of the matter, and the reactions that can take place between different compounds, until the study of the structure and functionality of some of the most important macromolecules from the biological point of view.
Pre-course requirements
There are no prerequisites.
Objectives
The objectives of the subject are:
1. To acquire the fundamental basic knowledge related to the atomic and molecular structure.
2. To know the chemical reactions in terms of thermodynamics, kinetics and chemical equilibrium.
3. To have a global vision of organic chemistry.
4. To understand the functioning and organization of the main macromolecules that constitute living matter.
Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme
- CP01 - Interpret relevant data (normally within their area of study) and issue judgements that include a reflection on relevant issues of a social, scientific and ethical nature.
- CP06 - Apply basic knowledge principles of general chemistry, organic and inorganic chemistry, and their applications in bioengineering.
Learning outcomes of the subject
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
• Describe basic scientific knowledge related to Chemistry.
• Integrate essential methodologies and tools to solve problems presented in the various topics of the course.
• Solve exercises and problems presented throughout all course topics.
• Use safe working methods in the laboratory.
• Use efficient working methods in the laboratory.
• • Independently solve proposed exercises and critically analyze the results obtained.
• • Compile, synthesize, and assimilate information related to chemistry concepts.
Syllabus
DIDACTIC UNIT I: CHEMISTRY.
1. History and fundamental concepts of chemistry.
2. Atomic and molecular structure.
- Evolution of the atomic model.
3. The Periodic Table.
4. Chemical reactions
- Molar quantities
- Stoichiometry
5. Thermodynamics.
6. Chemical Bonds
- Ionic bond.
- Covalent bond.
- Metal bond.
7. Chemical equilibrium
- Acid / base reactions.
- Precipitation reactions.
- Reduction / oxidation reactions.
- Hydrolysis.
DIDACTIC UNIT II: BIOCHEMISTRY.
8. Introduction to organic molecules.
9. Biochemistry and structure of proteins.
10. Reactions catalyzed by enzymes.
-Features of enzymes.
-Kinetic enzyme.
11. Biochemistry and structure of nucleic acids.
12. Bioenergetics and metabolism.
Teaching and learning activities
In person
1. Magisterial classes.
2. Cooperative learning.
3. Preparation and realization of evaluable activities.
4. Autonomous study and exercise work.
Evaluation systems and criteria
In person
Participation in class, activities amd laboratory practices: 30%
Laboratory practices: 10%
Partial exam: 20%
Final exam: 50%
It is compulsory to obtain more than 4.5 points in all evaluable items to pass the subject. If 4.5 is not exceeded, that grade will be counted as the overall grade for the subject.
2nd-call exam: Only the note of said exam will be taken into account. In addition, there will be no option for honors distinction.
Important considerations:
- Plagiarism, copying or any other action that may be considered cheating will be zero in that evaluation section. Besides, plagiarism during exams will mean the immediate failing of the whole subject.
- In the second-sitting exams, the maximum grade students will be able to obtain is "Excellent" (grade with honors distinction will not be possible).
- Changes of the calendar, exam dates or the evaluation system will not be accepted.
- Exchange students (Erasmus and others) or repeaters will be subjected to the same conditions as the rest of the students.
Important considerations
- Plagiarism, copying or any other form of academic dishonesty will result in a grade of zero for the corresponding component.
- If academic dishonesty is detected during an exam, it will result in the immediate failure of the course, with no chance of resitting.
- The use of artificial intelligence tools for the completion of assessment activities is strictly prohibited, except where their use is expressly authorized by the lecturer as part of the activity.
- The use or possession of electronic devices (mobile phones, smartwatches, earbuds, etc.) during exams is strictly prohibited.
Mere possession, even if the device is turned off, will be considered an attempt to cheat.
- If this occurs during the first call, it will result in the automatic failure of the exam, and the student will be required to attend the second call.
- If it occurs during the second call, it will result in the definitive failure of the course, and the student must re-enrol in the next academic year.
- No changes to the academic calendar, exam dates or evaluation system will be accepted under any circumstances.
- Exchange students (Erasmus or others) and repeaters are subject to the same evaluation and attendance conditions as all other students.
Bibliography and resources
Chang, Overby, J., & Álvarez, R. (2020). Chang, Raymond, Chemistry. Castellà
Química (13 e.). McGraw-Hill/Intermericana Editores, S.A. de C.V.
Lehninger. Principios de Bioquímica. 4ª ed. Nelson D. y Cox, M. Editorial Omega, 2005.
Stryer, Berg y Tymoczko. Bioquímica. 5ª ed. Ed. Reverté, 2002.
Evaluation period
- E1 05/11/2025 P2A03 09:00h
- E1 19/01/2026 A10 08:00h