MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)

Thermodynamics is fundamental to mastering chemistry concepts and understanding the energy dynamics within biological systems crucial for the MCAT.
In this episode, host Sam Smith dives into the laws of thermodynamics, covering everything from the zeroth law to the third. You'll explore key concepts like enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs Free Energy and learn how they apply to reaction spontaneity and equilibrium. Sam also gives practical examples, including how the equilibrium constant and reaction quotient (Q vs. K) affect reactions, and covers types of heat transfer—conduction, convection, and radiation—essential for the Chem/Phys section. 

Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT and use promo code PODCAST to receive a five percent discount on your first session.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(01:03) Introduction to thermodynamics
(03:58) The four laws of thermodynamics
(12:46) Thermodynamic variables: entropy, enthalpy, and Gibbs Free Energy
(24:11) Phase changes in thermodynamics
(25:30) Gibbs Free Energy and spontaneity of reactions
(38:01) The three types of heat transfer: conduction, convection, and radiation

DNA replication and the central dogma are fundamental concepts in molecular biology, and breaking down the different replication methods and the processes of transcription and translation is crucial for understanding how genetic information is expressed and passed on in cells.
In the first part of our episode, we'll break down DNA replication, exploring the concepts of conservative, semi-conservative, and dispersive replication, unraveling the mechanisms that drive this fundamental process.
Later, we'll focus on transcription and translation, delving into the nuances between prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. We'll uncover the mechanisms by which genetic information is transcribed from DNA to RNA and then translated into proteins, all while considering the diverse cellular locations where these processes take place.
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT and use promo code PODCAST to receive a five percent discount on your first session.
Jump into the conversation:
[01:07] Episode Overview
[01:54] DNA replication explanation
[05:53] Three phases of replication - initiation, elongation, and termination
[25:12] Central Dogma description
[25:50] Transcription Process
[36:31] The differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic transcription
[37:58] Translation Process

Learning and memory are foundational concepts that play a critical role in acing the MCAT, especially in the Psych/Soc section.

In this episode, host Sam Smith discusses the key concepts of learning and memory, covering the brain structures involved in memory formation, like the hippocampus and amygdala, as well as the different types of memory—explicit, implicit, and working memory. Sam also explores types of learning, including latent learning, observational learning, and the essential principles of classical and operant conditioning, and more.

Visit medschoolcoach.com for more help with the MCAT.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(01:03) How brain structures support learning and memory
(02:39) The role of memory in learning processes
(03:20) How the information processing model explains memory
(16:28) Types of learning: latent, observational, and conditioning
(17:48) How observational learning works in social contexts
(18:23) Overview of classical and operant conditioning
(34:44) MCAT Advice of the Day

A foundational part of the MCAT, light and optics bridge the gap between physics and biology, making them vital for your exam preparation.

In this episode, Sam Smith breaks down the fundamentals of light, covering both its wave and particle properties. From the energy of photons and the photoelectric effect, to wave behavior and the principles of refraction and reflection, Sam simplifies complex concepts to help you grasp key equations and principles. You'll also learn about lenses, ray tracing, and the real-life applications of polarization.

Visit medschoolcoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(01:03) Introduction to light and optics
(03:10) How photons carry energy
(05:34) The photoelectric effect and its significance
(17:47) Introduction to waves and simple harmonic motion
(18:46) Longitudinal vs. transverse waves explained
(21:47) Constructive and destructive interference in wave behavior
(23:40) Polarization, reflection, and refraction in light
(36:40) How lenses and ray tracing work
(44:59) MCAT Advice of the Day

Atomic chemistry is a core component of the MCAT, essential for understanding molecular behavior and periodic trends. 
In this episode, host Sam Smith explores key concepts in atomic chemistry, including the intricacies of quantum theory, hybridization, and molecular geometry. You'll gain insights into electron configuration, periodic trends, and the role of quantum numbers in describing electrons. Sam also discusses the significance of nuclear decay, from alpha to beta and gamma decay, and how it impacts atomic structure.
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(01:48) Understanding atomic orbitals and the planetary model
(04:54) Quantum theory and the wave-particle duality of electrons
(06:52) Types of atomic orbitals
(08:29) Electron configuration and its real-world applications
(12:24) Hund’s Rule and the Pauli Exclusion Principle
(17:45) The four quantum numbers
(22:10) Hybridization and bond formation
(26:14) Molecular geometry and its relevance
(29:44) Ionic vs. covalent bonds and electronegativity
(34:48) Periodic table trends: Atomic radius, electronegativity, and ionization energy
(37:49) Nuclear decay: Half-life and types of decay (alpha, beta, gamma)
(44:46) MCAT advice of the day