Macromolecules: Structures, Functions, and Key Components in Biology

macromolecules

Large molecules that are critically important to all living things, made up of smaller units called monomers.

monomer

A smaller part of a larger molecule; a subunit that can join together to form polymers.

polymer

A large molecule comprised of smaller monomers, formed by the process of polymerization.

carbohydrates

Organic compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, including sugars and starches, primarily used for energy.

lipid

A group of organic compounds that are mostly hydrophobic, made of carbon and hydrogen, including fats, oils, and waxes, primarily used for energy storage.

protein

A polymer made of amino acids that performs a variety of functions in the body, including catalyzing reactions and building muscle.

acids

Polymers made of nucleotides that store and transmit genetic information; examples include DNA and RNA.

dehydration synthesis

A chemical reaction that joins monomers together by removing a molecule of water to form a bond.

hydrolysis

A chemical reaction that breaks polymers into monomers by adding a molecule of water.

nucleotide

The monomer of nucleic acids, consisting of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

amino acid

The monomer of proteins, which are linked together by peptide bonds to form polypeptides.

peptide bond

The bond that holds amino acids together in a protein.

fatty acid

A carboxylic acid with a long aliphatic chain, which can be saturated or unsaturated, and is a component of lipids.

sugar

A type of carbohydrate that serves as a quick source of energy; examples include glucose and fructose.

main elements in carbohydrates

Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), and Oxygen (O).

main elements in lipids

Mostly Carbon (C) and Hydrogen (H).

main elements in proteins

Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O), and Nitrogen (N).

main elements in nucleic acids

Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O), Nitrogen (N), and Phosphorus (P).

function of nucleic acids

To store and transmit genetic information.

function of carbohydrates

To provide energy and serve as structural components.

function of lipids

To store energy, provide insulation, and make up cell membranes.

function of proteins

To catalyze biochemical reactions, provide structure, and regulate processes in the body.