Biological Macromolecules and Chemical Foundations of Life

What are the two main types of reactions involved in macromolecule processing?

Dehydration (Condensation) and Hydrolysis Reactions

What is the general reaction for dehydration reactions?

Monomer + Monomer → Polymer + H₂O

Where do dehydration reactions primarily occur?

Inside cells during biosynthesis (anabolism)

What is the general reaction for hydrolysis reactions?

Polymer + H₂O → Monomers

What is the primary role of carbohydrates in cells?

Immediate energy source and energy storage

What is the composition ratio of carbohydrates?

C, H, O in a ~1:2:1 ratio

What type of bond joins monosaccharides to form disaccharides?

Glycosidic bonds

What are the two main types of polysaccharides?

Storage (starch, glycogen) and Structural (cellulose, chitin)

What is the structure of triglycerides?

Glycerol + 3 fatty acids

What is the key property of lipids?

Hydrophobic (nonpolar) and do not dissolve in water

What is the role of cholesterol in cell membranes?

Regulates membrane fluidity

What are the four levels of protein structure?

Primary, Secondary, Tertiary, Quaternary

What is denaturation in proteins?

Loss of shape due to heat or pH changes, leading to loss of function

What are the basic building blocks of nucleic acids?

Nucleotides

What is the central dogma of biology?

DNA → RNA → Protein

What are the three subatomic particles and their charges?

Proton (+), Neutron (0), Electron (-)

What type of bond is formed when electrons are transferred?

Ionic bonds

What are the properties of water that support life?

Polarity, Cohesion, Adhesion, High specific heat

What is the pH scale used for?

Measures acidity or basicity (0-14)

What is a buffer?

Substances that resist changes in pH and help maintain homeostasis

Why is carbon important for life?

It has four valence electrons, allowing it to form diverse and complex molecules

What are functional groups?

Specific groups of atoms attached to carbon skeletons that determine properties and function

What is the role of enzymes in biological systems?

They act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions

What is the primary function of proteins?

Structure, function, and regulation of the body's tissues and organs

What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids?

Saturated fatty acids have no double bonds; unsaturated have one or more double bonds

What is the function of cellulose?

Provides structural support in plant cell walls

What is the role of RNA in protein synthesis?

Carries genetic code from DNA to ribosome

What is the function of phospholipids in cells?

Form the phospholipid bilayer of cell membranes