Carbon – The Framework of Biological Molecules

Biology Ch | 1 Exam

What is the significance of carbon in biological molecules?

Carbon serves as the backbone of biological molecules due to its ability to form four covalent bonds with other atoms.

What are hydrocarbons?

Hydrocarbons are molecules consisting only of carbon and hydrogen, known for being nonpolar and releasing energy when oxidized.

What are functional groups?

Functional groups are specific groups of atoms in molecules that determine their chemical properties.

What are structural isomers?

Structural isomers have the same molecular formula but different structures.

What is the primary structure of a protein?

The primary structure of a protein refers to the sequence of amino acids in its polypeptide chain.

What is a disaccharide?

A disaccharide is formed by linking two monosaccharides via glycosidic bonds.

What type of lipids form bilayers in cell membranes?

Phospholipids form bilayers in cell membranes.

What are the roles of nucleotides in nucleic acids?

Nucleotides are the building blocks of nucleic acids, consisting of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

What is the role of chaperone proteins?

Chaperone proteins assist in the proper folding of polypeptides into functional proteins.

What are the four main types of biological macromolecules?

The four main types of biological macromolecules are carbohydrates, nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids.

How do unsaturated fats differ from saturated fats?

Unsaturated fats contain one or more double bonds and are liquid at room temperature, while saturated fats have no double bonds and are solid.

What are amino acids?

Amino acids are the monomers that make up proteins, each possessing an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a unique R group.

What process links monomers through the removal of water?

Dehydration reactions link monomers by removing water.

What is cellulose and its function in plants?

Cellulose is a polysaccharide that provides structural support in plant cell walls.

What is the significance of isomers?

Isomers have the same molecular formula but differ in structure, leading to diverse functions.