Biological Macromolecules

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to biological macromolecules, including carbohydrates and lipids.

Carbohydrates

Used as an important source of energy, composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms in a fixed ratio of 1:2:1.

Monosaccharides

Basic building blocks of carbohydrates, such as glucose.

Polysaccharides

Formed by linking monosaccharides together through dehydration synthesis, can be broken down into small molecules via hydrolysis.

Lipids

Fats, oils, and waxes, categorized into three major families: triglycerides, phospholipids, and steroids.

Triglycerides

The most common type of lipid, composed of a glycerol molecule and three fatty acid tails.

Fatty Acid Tails

Composed of a carboxyl group at one end and a long chain of carbons bonded to hydrogens, rich in energy.

Hydrophobic

Non-polar nature of hydrocarbons that prevents them from mixing with water.

Dehydration Synthesis

The process linking monosaccharides to form polysaccharides.

Hydrolysis

The process breaking down polysaccharides into smaller molecules.