MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
by MedSchoolCoach
Join us as we detail MCAT exam topics. Each podcast covers several MCAT sections with lessons based on review material put out by the AAMC, such as practice tests and question banks. Sam also interviews MCAT tutors and experts who share tips on how premed students can raise their score to get into medical school.
Episodes
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Molecular Structure and Absorption Spectra
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...
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Personality
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...
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Population Genetics
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…
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Social Norms & Deviance
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…
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Fat and Protein Metabolism
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…
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Work and Energy
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...
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The Endocrine System
In this episode, we’ll cover crucial aspects such as hormones, their origins and mechanisms of action, and the various structures within the endocrine system. We'll also decode complex cell-to-cell communication and distinguish between different hormone types—peptide, protein, steroid, and...
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Sleep and Circadian Rhythms
This 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...
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The Excretory System
In this episode, we're covering the anatomy and physiology of key organs such as the kidneys, liver, skin, lungs, and large intestine, and discuss the crucial role they play in eliminating waste products from our bodies. From the structure of the hepatic lobules in the liver to the sweat glands…
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Common Hormone Axes
In this episode, we'll explore three crucial hormone axes: the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone (RAAS) system. We'll decode the complex interplays among the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and various...
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Adenosine Triphosphate or ATP
In this episode, we’ll talk about ATP or adenosine triphosphate. We will begin with a detailed examination of ATP's structure and composition as a nucleotide, followed by an explanation of the metabolic pathways involved in its production—both aerobic and anaerobic. We will also cover the pivotal...
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Biological Membranes
This MCAT Basics podcast covers biological membranes. First, the podcast introduces a few topics regarding membranes: what they are, how they are formed, their presence in the cell, and cell-to-cell junctions. Second, it addresses transport through the membrane, including simple diffusion, active...
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Electrochemistry
In this episode of MCAT Basics, we’ll cover Electrochemistry. We start with the role of salt bridges in electrochemical cells and cover the intricacies of cell notation. We’ll also discuss how ions maintain charge balance, the importance of reduction and oxidation potentials, and how these…
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The Digestive System
In this episode, we'll break down the intricate processes of nutrient digestion and absorption, from the mechanical and chemical digestion in the stomach to the vital role of the small and large intestines. We'll also discuss the regulatory mechanisms involving hormones and nervous innervation…
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Physiology and Perception of the Eye
This podcast focuses on the eye. It begins with a brief overview of the eye's anatomy and physiology. The discussion then shifts to rods, cones, and the phototransduction pathway. The final section addresses perception. Key topics include visual field processing, differences between binocular and...
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Sound and Hearing
In this episode, we focus on the physiology of sound and hearing. We begin by exploring sound-related concepts, including sound waves, pitch, ultrasound, and the decibel system. Next, we delve into the anatomy and physiology of the ear, providing a clear understanding of how we perceive sound.…
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Redox Reactions: Reduction and Oxidation
Redox reactions or reduction and oxidation are reactions in which electrons are simultaneously transferred from one chemical species to another. This episode begins with exploring this concept, including an in-depth look at oxidizing and reducing agents and the factors determining a compound's...
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Intelligence
In this episode, we explore the topic of intelligence, which is primarily featured in the psychology and sociology section of the MCAT. We cover several key theories, including entity vs. incremental theory, general intelligence theory, two-factor theory, multiple intelligences theory, Triarchic...
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Circuit Variables & Elements
This episode of MCAT Basics covers the world of circuits. We will explore electrical circuits and their fundamental principles. We’ll start with dissecting the essential parameters that form the backbone of circuits: voltage, current, resistance, and power. These are the building blocks upon…
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Separation and Purification Techniques
This episode of MCAT Basics covers several separation and purification techniques you may see on the MCAT. We’ll cover these techniques in three distinct categories: small molecules, proteins, and cells. Within the small molecule category, we’ll discuss extraction, crystallization and...
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Innate Immune System
The immune system is split up into two main categories - the adaptive immune system and the innate immune system. This episode will cover the intricacies of the innate immune system beginning with an overview of its constituent cells. We will then explore three pivotal elements of the system:...
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Adaptive Immune System
To continue our discussion on the immune system, in this episode, we will cover the second type of immune system – the adaptive immune system. We start with covering some vocabulary that you’ll need to know to understand the immune system, then we move into the cells that make up the adaptive...
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Introduction
In this episode of MCAT Basics+, we introduce the MCAT exam and examine the Chem/Phys, Bio/Biochem, and Psych/Soc sections. We highlight the importance of establishing a study schedule and utilizing practice tests for exam preparation. Tune in to discover strategies for approaching each section…
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Renal Physiology
Understanding the kidneys' role in the body’s balance is essential for the MCAT and beyond. In this episode, host Sam Smith discusses renal physiology, covering everything from kidney anatomy to the nephron’s critical functions in filtration, reabsorption, secretion, and excretion. You’ll explore...
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Cell and Tissue Types
Cells and tissues form the building blocks of life, which are crucial for mastering key concepts in the MCAT’s biology and biochemistry sections. In this episode, host Sam Smith breaks down the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, exploring animal, plant, and bacterial cell...
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Thermodynamics
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...
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DNA Replication and Central Dogma
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…
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Psychology and Sociology Theories
Understanding social and psychological theories is crucial for success on the MCAT, as these concepts shape everything from human behavior to societal structures. In this episode, Sam Smith breaks down the essential sociological and psychological theories you need to master, ranging from...
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Electromagnetism
Electromagnetism is a critical component of physics, playing a pivotal role in everything from circuits to medical imaging technologies like MRIs. It is also a crucial topic for the MCAT, appearing frequently in the physics and chemistry sections. In this episode, Sam Smith breaks down the...
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Functional Groups: Physical and Chemical Properties
A deep understanding of functional groups is crucial for excelling in the MCAT, as they play a key role in the reactivity, physical properties, and biological functions of molecules. In this episode, Sam Smith breaks down the essential functional groups, covering their physical and chemical...
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Psychosocial Development and Identity
The essentials of identity theories and psychosocial development reveal the foundational elements of human behavior and self-perception. In this episode, Sam Smith discusses the core theories around identity, from Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development and Freud’s psychosexual stages to...
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Learning and Memory
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...
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Light and Optics
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...
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Atomic Chemistry
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...
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The Reproductive System
In this episode of MCAT Basics, Sam Smith discusses the reproductive system and development, breaking down essential topics for the bio and biochem section of the MCAT. Sam walks through the key reproductive organs, the processes of spermatogenesis and oogenesis, and the pathway sperm and eggs…
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Genetics: Gene Expression
In this episode, we explore key topics in genetics, including how sex-linked and autosomal traits are inherited. We'll break down inheritance patterns using real-world examples, like X-linked recessive diseases, and walk through Punnett square problems to show how these traits are passed down. We...
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Social Groups
Mastering the concept of sociological groups can unlock a deeper understanding of how we interact and influence each other. On top of that, social interactions and group dynamics form the backbone of the Psych/Soc section of the MCAT, so mastering this topic is key to a good score. In this…
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Organic Chemistry Mechanisms To Know
In this episode, Sam Smith will discuss and help you understand the essential organic chemistry mechanisms and reactions you may encounter when taking the MCAT. From nucleophilic substitution reactions like SN1 and SN2 to aldol condensation and oxidation and reduction of alcohols, Sam will cover...
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Study Types and Research Design
Understanding study design and research variables is crucial for mastering the MCAT and in medical research. In this episode, host Sam Smith discusses the essentials of study design and research methods, from understanding independent and dependent variables to navigating the complexities of...
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Metabolism: Gluconeogenesis, Pentose Phosphate Pathway, and More
In this episode, we're diving deep into the nuanced aspects of metabolism that are essential yet less prominently featured on the MCAT. We'll cover gluconeogenesis, the pentose phosphate pathway, and ketone body generation—topics that, while subtle, play a crucial role in your comprehensive...
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Biomolecule Structure, Naming, And Function
In this episode, we’ll learn the intricate world of biomolecule structure, naming, and function. We'll explore the structural nuances between glucose and fructose and unravel the complexities of glycosidic linkages in sucrose. We'll also examine the vital roles of fatty acids, the composition of...
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Enzyme Kinetics, Inhibition, and Categorization
In this episode, we explore enzyme kinetics and inhibition, key concepts for the MCAT Bio/Biochem section. We’ll cover how enzymes accelerate biological reactions by lowering activation energy and introduce two models for enzyme-substrate interaction: the lock-and-key model and the induced fit...
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Genetics: Chromosomes, Meiosis and Mitosis, and Inheritance Patterns
In this episode, we cover the foundational concepts of genetics, focusing on chromosomes, mitosis, meiosis, and inheritance patterns—important topics for the MCAT Bio/Biochem section. We’ll discuss how Gregor Mendel’s laws of segregation, independent assortment, and dominance influence…
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Metabolism: Glycolysis, Krebs Cycle, Electron Transport Chain
In this episode, Sam Smith covers the intricacies of metabolism, focusing on glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain. First, the podcast explores the process of glycolysis, breaking down the key enzymes, intermediates, and regulation points. Next is the citric acid cycle,...
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Acids and Bases
Acids and bases are foundational topics in chemistry, crucial for understanding various biological and chemical systems you'll encounter in the MCAT. In this episode, host Sam Smith discusses the selection and use of indicators in titrations to the pH at the equivalence point and the importance…
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The Nervous System
A foundational topic for the MCAT is the nervous system, appearing in several exam sections and impacting everything from neurotransmission to brain structure. In this episode, Sam Smith walks us through the nervous system, covering its major components and functions. From the organization of the...
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Amino Acids
Amino acids are the building blocks of life and an essential topic for the MCAT. In this episode, host Sam Smith takes us through the key concepts of amino acids, including their structures, naming conventions, and roles in protein formation. We’ll cover the differences between hydrophobic and...
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The Muscular System
This MCAT BAsics episode covers the muscular system. It begins with the differences and similarities between the three types of muscle (smooth, cardiac, and skeletal). Then, the podcast explores the basic structure of a skeletal muscle cell and the various organelles unique to this cell type,...
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Fluid Statics
This MCAT Basics episode covers fluid statics (fluids standing still). It begins with different fluid properties, including surface tension, vapor pressure, adsorption and absorption, adhesion and cohesion, and Henry's law. Next, it discusses several important fluid statics concepts: static fluid...
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Electron Transport Chain
The electron transport chain is a fundamental pathway in biochemistry, critical for understanding the energy production that powers cellular function. In this episode, guest host Alex Starks breaks down the intricate process of the electron transport chain (ETC). Building on previous discussions…
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About this show
Join us as we detail MCAT exam topics. Each podcast covers several MCAT sections with lessons based on review material put out by the AAMC, such as practice tests and question banks. Sam also interviews MCAT tutors and experts who share tips on how premed students can raise their score to get into medical school.
Hosted by
MedSchoolCoach
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