Biological Macromolecules
This page delves into the structure and function of important biological macromolecules: carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. These molecules are essential for various life processes and are composed of different combinations of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and sometimes nitrogen and phosphorus.
Definition: Monomers are the building blocks of larger molecules called polymers.
Carbohydrates, with a 1:2:1 ratio of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, function as short-term energy storage and provide structural support in plants. Proteins, made of amino acid monomers, have diverse functions including enzymatic activity, oxygen transport, and hormone production.
Example: Glucose is a monosaccharide simplesugar that can form polymers like cellulose in plant cell walls.
Lipids, including fats, waxes, and steroids, are non-polar molecules that serve as long-term energy storage and insulation. Phospholipids are crucial components of cell membranes.
Highlight: Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, store and transmit genetic information. They are composed of nucleotide monomers containing a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogen base.