B1.1.2-3 - Molecules + Condenstaion & Hydrolysis Reactions

Define an organic molecule

compounds that consist of all Carbon, Hydrogen and Oxygen

define a macromolecule

a large molecule consisting of very large number of subunits (monomers) linked using covalent bonds

High relative molecular mass

Name the 4 main classes of macromolecules

• Polysaccharides (carbohydrates)

• Polypeptides (proteins)

• Lipids

• Nucleic acids

define a monomer

A small, single molecule that can chemically bond with other monomers, acting as building blocks for polymers

define a polymer

a chain of multiple monomers with many repeating subunits

What is the relationship between polymers and macromolecules?

Polymers are gen. macromolecules, but not all macromolecules are polymers (bc units may not be repeating)

define anabolic reactions

chemical reactions that build complex molecules form simpler ones, requires energy

define a catabolic reaction

chemical reactions that breaks complex molecules into simpler ones, releases energy

define a condensation reaction

Anabolic chemical reaction where two smaller molecules are linked together to form a larger molecule + a smaller molecule (byproduct, often water)

What are 4 key characteristics of condensation reactions in the 4 main macromolecule classes?

• water as byproduct

• creates a covalent bond

• monomers linked onto the end of the polymer\

• requires energy (supplied by ATP)

How is water formed as a byproduct in condensation reactions?

Water is formed by removing a -OH (Hydroxyl group) and a hydrogen from one of the molecules being linked -> H2O

Define hydrolysis reactions

Catabolic chemical reaction where a larger molecule + water → broken down into smaller molecules

State 3 key traits of hydrolysis reactions

• water molecules are split into -H and -OH groups

• reverse of condensation reactions

• exothermic

Why is water needed as a reactant in hydrolysis reactions?

They are needed to make new bonds after the bond in the large molecule has been broken