Aromatic Compounds
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we break down aromatic compounds, a crucial topic for the Biochem and Chem/Phys sections of the MCAT. You’ll learn what makes a compound aromatic, how to identify them using Huckel’s Rule, and the difference between aromatic, antiaromatic, and nonaromatic compounds. Sam Smith covers key examples like benzene, toluene, and phenol, and explains their role in biological systems like DNA and the electron transport chain. With practical tips and MCAT-focused insights, you'll be ready to tackle questions on aromatic compounds with confidence. Visit for more help with the MCAT....
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Aging
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
Aging is an essential topic for the MCAT, and in this episode, we’ll explore it from multiple angles. We start with the biological aspects of aging, including key processes like telomere shortening, cell senescence, and mitochondrial dysfunction—each providing insight into how and why cells age. From there, we dive into how aging impacts the brain, including the types of memory and cognitive functions that either decline or improve with age. Lastly, we’ll cover the sociology of aging, focusing on the life course theory, the social significance of aging, and demographic changes. Expect a...
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Personality
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we focus on personality and the theories relevant for the MCAT. We’ll cover key perspectives, such as psychoanalytic theory, humanistic theory, and trait theory, along with the influence of social cognitive and biological factors on personality development. You’ll get an overview of the different personality disorders, categorized into clusters like odd or eccentric behavior, dramatic or erratic behavior, and anxious or fearful behavior. You’ll also gain an understanding of specific disorders, including narcissistic personality disorder, antisocial personality...
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Molecular Structure and Absorption Spectra
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we cover molecular structure and the key spectroscopy techniques you need to know for the MCAT. We'll explore the intricacies of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy, breaking down the chemical shifts and spin-splitting essentials for understanding hydrogen and carbon bonds in various compounds. You'll learn how to identify functional groups using Infrared (IR) spectroscopy and how mass spectrometry can help determine molecular weights and identify unknown compounds. We'll also touch on UV-Vis spectroscopy and its role in quantifying compounds based on absorption spectra....
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The Doppler Effect
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
The Doppler Effect is a crucial concept for the MCAT, particularly in the Chemistry & Physics section. We'll explore how the Doppler effect occurs when a wave source moves relative to an observer, affecting the observed frequency and wavelength. Using practical examples like an ambulance speeding towards you, we'll bring these concepts to life. We'll also break down the Doppler effect equation, examining what it reveals—and what it doesn’t—about wave behavior. By the end of this episode, you'll have a solid understanding of The Doppler effect and will be ready to tackle any related...
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Viruses
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we cover the topic of viruses. We explore a comprehensive range of subtopics including the definition and structure of viruses, their life cycles, and the differences between transduction and transfection. We also discuss virus classification, viral mutations, and subviral particles. This material will primarily appear in the Bio/Biochem section of the MCAT. Visit for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation: [00:00] Introduction [01:57] Definition of a virus [02:55] Virus structure [10:41] The viral life cycle [17:34] The bacteriophage life cycle...
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Work and Energy
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we cover the topic of work and energy. We’ll start off by talking about work, which includes the mathematical and conceptual definitions and the sign convention of work. We’ll also talk a little bit about mechanical advantage and also path dependency. Moving on to energy, we’ll talk about the general definition of energy, we’ll compare and contrast energy in work and the different types of energy that includes kinetic energy, potential energy, thermal energy, and total mechanical energy. Lastly, we’ll talk about energy transfer, specifically heat transfer, and the...
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Fat and Protein Metabolism
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we’ll nail down all that is needed for the MCATB in relation to fat and protein metabolism. Two critical processes for gaining energy and maintaining cellular functions in the body. We'll learn about the intricate details of beta-oxidation, where fatty acids are broken down in the mitochondrial matrix to produce energy-rich molecules like NADH, FADH2, and acetyl CoA. From protein catabolism, where proteins are broken down into amino acids that feed into gluconeogenesis and ketosis pathways, to protein anabolism, where these amino acids are incorporated into new proteins....
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Social Norms & Deviance
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
Social norms and deviance as covered in the MCAT is a fascinating topic, and in this episode, we'll break down the intersection of social norms—folkways, mores, taboos, and laws—how they play a crucial role in shaping societal values, and what happens when these norms break down, a concept known as anomy. Plus, we'll delve into collective behavior phenomena such as fads, mass hysteria, moral panic, and riots, touching on some real-life examples and historical comparisons. Expect a comprehensive overview, with real-world relevance and plenty of examples to help solidify your...
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Population Genetics
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we discuss population genetics and see how genetically related individuals share the same alleles, delving into the mechanisms of gene flow and genetic drift. We'll also unravel the complexities of hybrid vigor, reproductive isolation, and natural selection, and how these processes shape the genetic landscape of populations. We'll also touch on the fascinating dynamics of X-linked and mitochondrial inheritance, and the role of genomic imprinting in disease risk. Ever wondered how the Hardy-Weinberg equation helps us understand genetic equilibrium in populations?...
info_outlineThis episode is packed with essential high-yield information for your MCAT prep, covering the biological, physiological, and psychological aspects of sleep. We’ll explore various sleep theories, like the Memory Consolidation and Brain Plasicticity Theories, and even discuss the controversial “Sleeping When You Die” theory. We’ll also delve into dream theories, including Freud’s interpretations and the Activation Synthesys Hypothesis. Plus, we’ll address common sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy, alongside the effects of different drugs on your sleep patterns.
We’ll cover critical brain structures involved in sleep, such as the hypothalamus and the suprachiasmatic nucleus, and break down the stages of sleep measured through EEG, EMG, and EOG.
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
[00:00] Introduction to the MCAT Basics podcast with host, Sam Smith
[04:05] Pineal gland, amygdala, basal forebrain in sleep.
[07:40] Measuring postsynaptic potential, not action potentials. EEG waves distinguish sleep stages. EMG records muscle electrical activity.
[10:46] Alpha waves awake, theta waves asleep. Hallucinations in stage N1 sleep.
[15:01] Unconfirmed sleepwalking. Stages of sleep explained.
[18:18] Sleep cycles lengthen REM stage, diagrams illustrate.
[19:50] We don't remember all our dreams.
[23:55] Shifting circadian rhythms due to changes in light.
[29:10] Blind people's melatonin release entrained with light.
[29:41] Cortisol secretion cycle follows a circadian rhythm.
[35:09] Freud: Dreams represent unconscious desires; manifest vs latent.
[38:53] Divorce dreams related to spouse thinking time. Broad sleep disorder categories: insomnia, breathing, hypersomnolence.
[41:18] Hypersomnia, narcolepsy, drugs' impact on sleep.
[44:14 Brief primer on drug effects on sleep.