Basic Macromolecules

Macromolecule

Large biological molecule made of smaller units; includes carbs, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids.

Monomer

Small building block that joins with others to form polymers.

Polymer

Large molecule made of repeating monomers.

Dehydration Synthesis

Process that builds polymers by removing water.

Hydrolysis

Process that breaks polymers into monomers by adding water.

Carbohydrate

Quick energy source; includes sugars and starches.

Lipid

Long-term energy storage; makes up cell membranes; includes fats and oils.

Protein

Made of amino acids; used for structure, enzymes, transport, immunity.

Enzyme

Protein that speeds up chemical reactions; not used up.

Nucleic Acid

Stores and transmits genetic information; includes DNA and RNA.

Nucleotide

The monomer (building block) of nucleic acids.