Student Copy of Biomolecules, Macromolecules

Macromolecules

Large molecules formed by joining smaller molecules called monomers through covalent bonds; also known as polymers.

Dehydration synthesis

The process of linking monomers to build a polymer by removing a water molecule.

Hydrolysis

The process of breaking down polymers into monomers by adding a water molecule.

Carbohydrates

Biomolecules made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen that provide immediate and short-term energy storage; include sugars and starches.

Monosaccharides

The simplest form of carbohydrates; single sugar molecules such as glucose, fructose, and galactose.

Polysaccharides

Complex carbohydrates formed by long chains of monosaccharides, examples include starch and cellulose.

Lipids

Biomolecules primarily made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, functioning mainly in long-term energy storage, insulation, and forming cell membranes.

Proteins

Diverse biomolecules made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen; serve various functions including structural support, transport, and catalyzing reactions.

Amino acids

The monomer units that make up proteins, characterized by having an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a variable R group.

Nucleic Acids

Biomolecules that store and transmit genetic information, such as DNA and RNA, comprised of nucleotides.

Nucleotides

The monomer units of nucleic acids, consisting of a 5-carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.