Chapter 3: The Molecules of Cells

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from Chapter 3 about the molecules of cells, focusing on organic compounds, macromolecules, and their biological functions.

Organic Compounds

Carbon-based molecules that always contain carbon.

Hydrocarbons

Compounds composed only of carbon and hydrogen.

Isomers

Compounds with the same molecular/chemical formula but different structural arrangements.

Functional Groups

Specific groups of atoms that affect a molecule’s function in a unique way.

Monomers

Single, small molecules that can link together to form larger molecules, called polymers.

Polymers

Large molecules formed from smaller, identical building blocks known as monomers.

Dehydration Reaction

A chemical reaction that links monomers together by removing water.

Hydrolysis

The process of breaking down polymers into monomers by adding water.

Macromolecules

Large biological molecules that include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Monosaccharides

The simplest carbohydrates, such as glucose and fructose.

Disaccharides

Sugars formed from the combination of two monosaccharides.

Polysaccharides

Long chains of monosaccharides, used for storage or structural purposes.

Lipids

Hydrophobic molecules that include fats, oils, and steroids.

Amino Acids

Building blocks of proteins, consisting of an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a variable R group.

Peptide Bonds

Covalent bonds that link amino acids together to form proteins.

Enzymes

Proteins that act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions.

Nucleotides

The building blocks of nucleic acids, consisting of a five-carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, a type of nucleic acid that carries genetic information.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid, a type of nucleic acid involved in protein synthesis.