Human Physiology: Chapter 2 - Macromolecules

These flashcards cover the key concepts of macromolecules, specifically focusing on organic molecules, their functional groups, and their roles in human physiology.

Organic Molecules

Molecules that contain carbon and hydrogen.

Functional Groups

Specific groups of atoms that determine the chemical properties of organic molecules.

Stereoisomers

Compounds with the same chemical formula but different spatial arrangements.

Carbohydrates

Organic macromolecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, typically in a 1:2:1 ratio, serving as a major energy source.

Dehydration Synthesis

The process of building macromolecules by removing water (H₂O).

Hydrolysis

The process of breaking macromolecules by adding water (H₂O).

Lipids

Non-polar organic molecules that include fats, oils, phospholipids, and steroids; involved in energy storage, membrane function, and hormone regulation.

Proteins

Macromolecules made of amino acids that perform a variety of functions including structural support, enzyme activity, and regulation.

Nucleic Acids

Biomacromolecules that store and transmit genetic information; includes DNA and RNA.

Peptide Bonds

The bonds formed between amino acids in a protein.

Cis-Trans Isomers

Types of stereoisomers that differ in the arrangement of groups around a double bond.

Ketone Bodies

Compounds produced from free fatty acids in the liver, involved in energy metabolism during fasting or low carbohydrate intake.

DNA Structure

A double helix formed by two strands of nucleotides with complementary base pairing.

RNA Types

Three main types of RNA involved in protein synthesis: mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA.

Phospholipids

A class of lipids that are a major component of cell membranes.

Amino Acids

The building blocks of proteins, composed of an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a variable side chain (R group).

Monosaccharides

Simple sugars that are the building blocks of carbohydrates, e.g., glucose, fructose.

Polysaccharides

Large molecules formed from many monosaccharides, serving as energy storage or structural components.

Hydrophobic

Substances that do not mix with water, characteristic of many lipids.

Triacylglycerols

Fats and oils composed of glycerol and three fatty acids.

Enzymes

Proteins that act as biological catalysts to accelerate chemical reactions.