Biology Biological Molecules

Monosaccharide

The smaller sugar units (monomers) from which larger carbohydrates are made. Common examples include glucose, galactose, and fructose.

Polysaccharide

Larger molecules formed by the condensation of many monosaccharide units joined together by glycosidic bonds. Common examples include glycogen, starch, and cellulose.

Anabolism

The metabolic synthesis of more complex molecules from simpler ones, requiring an input of energy (often involving condensation reactions).

Catabolism

The metabolic breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy (often involving hydrolysis reactions).

Beta Glucose

An isomer of glucose where the hydroxyl (-OH) group on carbon-1 is positioned above the carbon ring. (Used to form cellulose)

Alpha Glucose

An isomer of glucose where the hydroxyl (-OH) group on carbon-1 is positioned below the carbon ring. (Used to form starch and glycogen)

Isomer

Molecules with the same chemical formula but a different structural formula

Condensation

A reaction that joins two molecules together with the formation of a chemical bond and involves the elimination of a molecule of water, producing a water molecule.

Hydrolysis

A reaction that breaks a chemical bond between two molecules and involves the use of a water molecule.