Biology 107: Macromolecules Application Lecture 3A

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and terminology related to macromolecules as studied in Biology 107.

Macromolecule

A large molecule, often composed of smaller structural units (monomers).

Polymer

Large molecule built by attaching together lots of small monomers.

Monomer

Building blocks to make polymers.

Monosaccharide

Monomer used to build polysaccharides.

Functional Group

A specific group of atoms within a molecule that is responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of that molecule.

Carbonyl

A functional group consisting of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom.

Dehydration Reaction

A chemical reaction that involves the loss of a water molecule from the reacting molecule.

Hydrolysis Reaction

A chemical reaction that involves breaking down a compound by the addition of water.

Glycosidic Bond

A type of covalent bond that connects monosaccharides.

Fiber

Dietary material consisting mainly of plant cell wall polysaccharides, which humans cannot digest.

Amylase Enzymes

Enzymes found in saliva and the gut that break down starches into sugars.

Trans Fat

Unsaturated fat that has been hydrogenated to extend its shelf life, leading to a lack of bend in the fatty acid chains.

Hydrophobic

Molecules that do not mix well with water.

Amphipathic

Molecules that have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties.

Sterols

A type of lipid characterized by a core structure of four fused carbon rings.