Macromolecules

Carbohydrates

Sugars found in grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Monosaccharide

The monomer (building block) of carbohydrates.

Polysaccharide

Made up of multiple monosaccharides that form carbohydrates.

Glucose

C6 H12 O6. Most common monosaccharide.

Cellulose

A carbohydrate used in the structure of plants. Provides support and forms fiber.

Starch

A source of energy storage used in plants. Broken down into glucose when eaten.

Chitin

A carbohydrate used in the exoskeletons/structure of animals.

Glycogen

A source of energy storage in animals, stored in the muscles. Used for short term energy storage.

Lipids

Fats and oils found in plants and animals. Used for energy storage and insulation.

Glycerol and fatty acids

The two monomers of lipids.

Saturated fats

Fatty acids with single bonds between carbons. Solid at room temperature.

Unsaturated fats

Fatty acids with double bonds. Liquid at room temperature.

Triglyceride

A polymer of lipids made from glycerol and fatty acids.

Phospholipids

Lipids with hydrophobic tails and hydrophilic heads. Build cell membranes.

Proteins

Have many functions in living things, such as structure, messaging, transportation, and enzymes.

Amino Acids

The monomers of proteins.

Polypeptide

The polymers used to form proteins. Made from amino acids.

Denaturation

Breaking down a protein under high temperatures.

Nucleotides

Monomers of nucleic acids. Made up of sugar, phosphate, and a nitrogenous base.

DNA and RNA

The two most common nucleic acids. Contain genetic information.