Untitled Flashcards Set

Polysaccharides can be broken down into which specific monosaccahride?

Glucose, fructose, and galactose.

If a carbohydrate molecule contains 32 hydrogen atoms, how many carbon atoms does it contain?

16 carbon atoms.

What is the function of starch?

Starch serves as a storage form of energy in plants, composed of long chains of glucose molecules.

Why can't humans consume cellulose for energy?

Humans lack the necessary enzymes to break down cellulose, a complex carbohydrate found in plant cell walls, making it indigestible for energy. (Cellulase)

What is a better meal choice before a marathon: celery or potatoes?

Potatoes are a better meal choice before a marathon because they provide complex carbohydrates, essential for sustained energy release during long-distance running.

What are the three parts of a nucleotide?

Nitrogenous base, pentose sugar, and phosphate group.

What role does the base sequence of bonded nucleotides play for an organism?

It provides the genetic information for DNA and RNA.

How do RNA and DNA work together in genetic information storage?

RNA helps in the synthesis of proteins based on the genetic instructions encoded in DNA, facilitating the expression of genetic information.

What is the base pairing rule in DNA involving purines and pyrimidines?

Adenine pairs with Thymine and Cytosine pairs with Guanine.

Why is RNA required for DNA to function properly?

RNA carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes for protein synthesis.

What nucleic acid is used by a virus that contains uracil but not thymine?

Ribonucleic acid (RNA).

Why are proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids considered biomolecular polymers?

They are large molecules made from smaller repeat units called monomers linked by covalent bonds.

Which component of an amino acid is comparable to the nitrogen base of a nucleotide?

The R-group.

What type of reaction joins two amino acids together, and what is the result?

Dehydration synthesis forms a peptide bond and a dipeptide.

Which part of an amino acid distinguishes between different amino acids?

The R-group.

What happens if you switch the R-group components of valine and tyrosine?

The identity and function of the amino acids would change.

What is the correct hierarchy of protein structure levels?

Primary, Secondary, Tertiary, Quaternary.

Why is an accurate primary structure important for protein function?

It dictates the 3D shape of the protein, affecting its interactions and activity.

What do alpha helix and pleated sheets refer to in protein structure?

They refer to the Secondary Structure of proteins.

How can you denature a protein?

By exposing it to high temperatures or significant changes in pH.

Match the class of protein with its function: Structural Proteins and Storage Proteins.

Structural Proteins: Support (e.g., silk fibers); Storage Proteins: Storage of amino acids (e.g., ovalbumin).

How do amino acids vary in their properties?

Due to differences in their R-groups which affect polarity, charge, and reactivity.

Why are cell membranes composed of amphiphilic molecules significant?

They form bilayers that create a selectively permeable barrier.

What assumption can you make about a lipid that is a liquid at room temperature?

It likely contains double bonds, which prevent tight packing.

What is the function of cellulose?

Cellulose provides structural support in plant cell walls, allowing them to maintain shape and rigidity.

What classes of life’s organic molecules are polymers?

Carbs, Proteins, Nucleic Acids

What is a polymer?

A long molecule consisting of many similar building blocks called monomers

What is a monomer?

A small molecule that can join together with other similar molecules to form a polymer.