biological molecules

carbohydrates

sugars, starches, and fiber that are the body's main energy source.

lipids

water-insoluble organic molecules, including fats, oils, waxes, steroids, and vitamins.

Proteins

large, essential molecules made of long chains of smaller units called amino acids.

nucleic acids

DNA and RNA that carry genetic instructions for all living organisms

monomer and polymer

Monomer - subunits of macromolecules

Polymer

chains of monomers

dehydration synthesis

A chemical reaction in which two molecules covalently bond to each other with the removal of a water molecule.

hydrolysis

A chemical process that splits a molecule by adding water. reverse of hydrolysis

functional group

a specific cluster of atoms within a larger molecule that determines its unique chemical behavior and reactivity.

enzyme

protein that acts as a biological catalyst

active site

The part of an enzyme or antibody where the chemical reaction occurs.

denaturation

loss of normal shape of a protein due to heat or other factor

DNA and RNA

nucleotide

A building block of DNA, consisting of a five-carbon sugar covalently bonded to a nitrogenous base and a phosphate group.

methyl group

A nonpolar, hydrophobic group consisting of a carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms.

carbonyl group

A polar group consisting of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom.

hydroxyl group

A polar, hydrophilic group consisting of an oxygen atom and a hydrogen atom.

methylamino group

An amino group that has a methyl group attached to the nitrogen atom.

phosphate group

A highly charged, acidic group consisting of a phosphorus atom bonded to four oxygen atoms