Synthesis of Biological Molecules

Biological macromolecules

Large molecules, necessary for life, that are built from smaller organic molecules

Monomer

Single unit or building blocks that make up macromolecules

Polymer

Comprise several 2 or more monomers held together by covalent bonds

Dehydration synthesis (condensation reaction)

Reaction that means "to put together while losing water"

Dehydration synthesis process

Hydrogen of one monomer combines with hydroxyl group of another monomer, releasing water and forming covalent bonds

Polymer formation

As additional monomers join, this chain of repeating monomers forms a polymer

Hydrolysis reaction

Reaction that breaks down polymers into monomers

Dehydration synthesis - monomer

Monomer is a reactant

Dehydration synthesis - polymer

Polymer is a product

Dehydration synthesis - water

Water is a product

Hydrolysis - monomer

Monomer is a product

Hydrolysis - polymer

Polymer is a reactant

Hydrolysis - water

Water is a reactant

Dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis - enzymes

Both require enzymes to speed up reactions

Dehydration synthesis - energy

Requires energy input

Hydrolysis - energy

Releases energy

Dehydration synthesis - purpose

Building macromolecules

Hydrolysis - purpose

Breaking down macromolecules