Chapter 3-Molecules of Life - Macromolecules Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts related to macromolecules, their structures, functions, and roles in living organisms.

Macromolecules

Large molecules essential for life, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Monomers

Small, single subunits that link together to form larger molecules (polymers).

Polymers

Large molecules formed by linking together many monomers, such as proteins and carbohydrates.

Carbohydrates

Macromolecules that serve as fuel for living organisms, composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.

Monosaccharides

The simplest form of carbohydrates, consisting of single sugar molecules, e.g., glucose.

Disaccharides

Carbohydrates formed by two monosaccharides linked together, e.g., sucrose.

Polysaccharides

Complex carbohydrates consisting of many monosaccharides, e.g., starch and glycogen.

Lipids

A diverse group of macromolecules that include fats, oils, and waxes, used primarily for energy storage.

Hydrophobic

Substances that do not mix well with water, typically lipids.

Hydrophilic

Substances that mix well with water, typically found in carbohydrates and proteins.

Saturated fats

Fats that contain no double bonds between carbon atoms, typically solid at room temperature.

Unsaturated fats

Fats that contain one or more double bonds between carbon atoms, typically liquid at room temperature.

Amino acids

The building blocks of proteins, linked together by peptide bonds to form proteins.

Enzymes

Proteins that act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.

Nucleic acids

Macromolecules that store and transmit genetic information, including DNA and RNA.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that carries the genetic blueprint for an organism.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid, involved in protein synthesis and translation of genetic information.

Metabolism

The sum of all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism to maintain life.

Glycogen

A polysaccharide that serves as a form of energy storage in animals.

Cellulose

A polysaccharide that forms the structural component of plant cell walls and is indigestible by humans.

Hydrogenation

The process of adding hydrogen to unsaturated fats, which can create trans fats.

Trans fats

Unsaturated fats that have been hydrogenated, which can increase the risk of heart disease.