Bio Module 3.1

The molecular diversity of life

Polymer

A molecule consisting of many similar or identical monomers.

Monomers

Subunits that serve as the building blocks of polymers.

Dehydration Synthesis

A reaction that removes water from the molecules, used to form larger molecules.

Hydrolysis

A reaction that adds water to a molecule, breaking it into two smaller molecules.

Proteins

Substances that consist of one or more polypeptides.

R group

Determines the identity and properties of amino acids.

Primary structure

The linear sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.

Quaternary structure

The overall 3-dimensional shape of a protein composed of more than one polypeptide.

Denaturation

A process where proteins lose their higher-order structure but not their primary sequence.

Triglycerides

Fats that are long-term energy storage molecules in animals and plants.