The Molecules of Cells

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary terms and definitions related to the molecules of cells, including their structures and functions.

Organic Compounds

Carbon-containing compounds that are the building blocks of life.

Carbohydrates

Serve as a cell's fuel and building material.

Lipids

Hydrophobic molecules with diverse functions, mainly energy storage.

Monosaccharide

Simplest carbohydrates; single sugar units like glucose.

Disaccharide

Formed from two monosaccharide monomers by dehydration reaction.

Polysaccharides

Long chains of sugar units, used for storage (like starch) or structure (like cellulose).

Hydrolysis

A reaction that breaks down polymers into monomers by adding water.

Dehydration Reaction

Links monomers together to form polymers by removing water.

Isomers

Compounds with the same formula but different structural arrangements.

Lactase

An enzyme that aids in the digestion of lactose.

Amino Acids

Building blocks of proteins, composed of an amino group and a carboxyl group.

Peptide Bond

The covalent bond formed between amino acids in a protein.

Nucleic Acids

Polymers of nucleotides which include DNA and RNA, crucial for heredity.

Triglycerides

Fats made from glycerol and three fatty acids, important for energy storage.

Functional Groups

Specific groups of atoms that determine the characteristics and chemical reactions of molecules.

Hydrophilic

Water-loving; compounds that interact well with water.

Hydrophobic

Water-fearing; compounds that do not mix well with water.

Carboxyl group

A functional group (-COOH) that acts as an acid.

Phosphate Group

A functional group involving phosphorus, crucial for energy transfer.

Hydroxyl Group

A functional group (-OH) that makes compounds soluble in water.

Gene

A segment of DNA that codes for a protein, influencing inherited traits.