Carbon-based Molecules and Their Functions

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key concepts and definitions related to carbon-based molecules as discussed in the lecture.

Carbohydrates

Molecules made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen that provide energy and can exist in forms like monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides.

Monosaccharides

The most basic form of carbohydrates, usually with 5 or 6 carbon atoms; they are simple sugars.

Disaccharides

Carbohydrates formed by the linkage of two monosaccharides.

Polysaccharides

Carbohydrates formed by long chains of monosaccharides linked together.

Lipids

Nonpolar molecules that include fats, oils, waxes, and play various roles in energy storage and membrane structure.

Saturated Fatty Acid

A type of fatty acid where all carbon atoms are connected by single bonds.

Unsaturated Fatty Acid

A type of fatty acid that contains one or more double or triple bonds between carbon atoms.

Proteins

Large biomolecules composed of amino acids that serve various functions, including catalysis as enzymes.

Amino Acids

Building blocks of proteins, consisting of a carbon atom, amino group (NH2), carboxyl group (COOH), and a variable 'R' group.

Peptide Bonds

Covalent bonds that link amino acids together to form proteins.

Nucleic Acids

Biopolymers made up of nucleotide monomers, including DNA and RNA.

Phospholipids

Molecules that make up the cell membrane, consisting of glycerol, fatty acids, and a phosphate group.

Steroids

Lipids with a ring structure that serve as chemical messengers and include hormones like cholesterol.

Cellulose

A complex carbohydrate that provides structural support in plant cell walls.

Hydrophilic

Substances that are soluble in water, typically polar in nature.

Hydrophobic

Substances that do not dissolve in water, typically nonpolar in nature.