Macromolecules and Cells Summary

Flashcards summarizing key vocabulary and definitions from macromolecules and cell chapter notes.

Macromolecules

Large biological molecules essential for life, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Dehydration Synthesis

A process that joins monomers by removing water to form covalent bonds.

Hydrolysis

A process that breaks down polymers into monomers by adding water.

Carbohydrates

Macromolecules that provide energy and structure, including monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides.

Monosaccharides

Simple sugars such as glucose and fructose.

Disaccharides

Two monosaccharides joined together (e.g., sucrose is glucose + fructose).

Polysaccharides

Carbohydrates that are polymers of monosaccharides, such as starch, glycogen, and cellulose.

Lipids

Macromolecules that function in energy storage, membrane structure, and hormones, but are not true polymers.

Triglycerides

Fats made of glycerol and three fatty acids.

Phospholipids

Lipids that make up cell membranes, consisting of a hydrophilic head and hydrophobic tails.

Proteins

Macromolecules made of amino acids that serve structural, enzymatic, signaling, and defensive roles.

Amino Acids

The building blocks of proteins, linked together by peptide bonds.

Denaturation

The process by which proteins lose their function due to changes in pH, temperature, or environment.

Nucleic Acids

Macromolecules that store and transmit genetic information, including DNA and RNA.

DNA

A nucleic acid that stores genetic information, characterized by its double-stranded structure.

RNA

A nucleic acid that helps in protein synthesis, characterized by its single-stranded structure.

Prokaryotic Cells

Simpler cells without a nucleus, including bacteria and archaea.

Eukaryotic Cells

More complex cells with a nucleus and organelles, including plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

Cell Organelles

Specialized structures within eukaryotic cells that perform distinct functions.

Phospholipid Bilayer

The structural basis of cell membranes, which is selectively permeable.

Passive Transport

Movement of molecules across a cell membrane without the use of energy.

Active Transport

Movement of substances against their concentration gradient, requiring energy (ATP).

Tight Junctions

Cell junctions that seal cells together, preventing leakage.