2.1.2 (b) the concept of monomers and polymers and the importance of condensation and hydrolysis reactions in a range. of biological molecules

What is a monomer?

A small molecule which can join with others to form a

Larger larger molecule

GIVE examples of monomers

Glucose

Fructose

Amino aids

What is a polymer

A large molecule made of many monomers joined together

Give examples of polymers

Polysaccharides (like glycogen or starch)

Or poly peptide like protein

What is condensation?

Monomers joined together and releases water

What are examples of condensation reaction?

2 glucose molecules condense to form maltose and water

Glycosidic bond in carbohydrates rates

Peptide bond in proteins

What is a hydrolysis reaction?

Polymers are broken down into their monomers (or shorter chains)

Examples of hydrolysis reaction

Glycosidic bond is broken or covalent bonds in general

Maltose +water = 2 glucose

Water is added which breaks the existing covalent bonds

What is the importance of condensation and hydrolysis reactions?

Building macromolecules

Energy stores + release

Metabolism regulation + recycling

Why do cells nee polymers?

To build structure + store energy

What is an example of an energy store that cells need?

Polysaccharides (like starch)

How are carbohydrates formed?

Monosaccharides join via glycosidic bonds formed in condensation

How are proteins formed?

Amino acids via peptide bonds (condensation)

How are lipids formed?

Triglycerides are formed via condensation reactions between glycerol and fatty acids roaming ester bonds