Biological Macromolecules Review

Key Terms:

• Biological macromolecule - a large, organic molecule such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids 

• Monomer - A molecule that is a building block for larger molecules (polymers). For example, an amino acid acts as the building blocks for proteins 

• Polymer - A large molecule made of repeating subunits (monomers). For example, a carbohydrate is a polymer that is made of repeating monosaccharides. 

Types of biological macromolecules: 

• Carbohydrates 

-building block: Monosaccharides (simple sugars) 

-functions: provides cells with quick/short-term energy, source of dietary fiber

-Ex.: Glucose, sucrose, starch, cellulose, chitin 

• Lipids 

-building block: Fatty acids and glycerol 

-functions: Provide cell with long term energy, make up biological membranes 

-Ex.: Fats, phospholipids, waxes, oils, grease, steroids 

• Proteins

-Building block: Amino acids

-functions: Provide cell structure, send chemical signals, speed up chemical reaction, etc. 

-Ex.: Keratin (found in hair and nails), hormones, enzymes, antibodies

• Nucleic Acids

-building block: Nucleotides

-functions: store and pass on genetic information 

-Ex.: RNA, DNA