Biological Molecules

Arts 1–4

Foreign Languages 1–4

Properties and functions of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, enzymes, and water.

📘 Topic Summary

Biological molecules are the building blocks of life, and understanding their properties and functions is crucial for biology students. This study guide will cover the main types of biological molecules, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, enzymes, and water, as well as provide tips on how to apply this knowledge in real-life scenarios.

📖 Glossary

Carbohydrate: A type of biomolecule that serves as a source of energy for cells.
Protein: A type of biomolecule that performs various functions, such as catalyzing chemical reactions and replicating DNA.
Lipid: A type of biomolecule that is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.
Nucleic acid: A type of biomolecule that contains the genetic instructions used in the development and function of all living organisms.
Enzyme: A biological molecule that acts as a catalyst to speed up chemical reactions.
Water: The most abundant biological molecule, essential for many cellular processes.

⭐ Key Points

Carbohydrates are classified into three main categories: monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides.
Proteins can be classified into four main categories: structural proteins, transport proteins, enzymes, and hormone-regulated proteins.
Lipids include fats, oils, waxes, and steroids.
Nucleic acids are composed of nucleotides, which contain a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and one of the four nitrogenous bases (adenine, guanine, cytosine, or thymine).
Enzymes have specific substrate specificity and optimal temperature and pH conditions for maximum activity.
The structure of biological molecules is crucial for their function, as even small changes can significantly affect their properties.

🔍 Subtopics

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are a type of biomolecule composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. They are the body's primary source of energy and can be classified into three main categories: monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides. Monosaccharides, such as glucose and fructose, are simple sugars that cannot be broken down further. Disaccharides, like sucrose and lactose, are formed by the combination of two monosaccharide molecules.

Proteins

Proteins are complex biomolecules composed of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. They perform a wide range of functions in the body, including catalyzing metabolic reactions, replicating DNA, and transporting molecules from one location to another. Proteins can be classified into different types based on their structure and function, such as enzymes, hormones, and structural proteins.

Lipids

Lipids are a type of biomolecule that includes fats, oils, waxes, and steroids. They play important roles in the body, such as storing energy, forming cell membranes, and regulating hormone production. Lipids can be classified into different types based on their chemical structure, including triglycerides, phospholipids, and sterols.

Nucleic Acids

Nucleic acids are a type of biomolecule that includes DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid). They contain the genetic instructions for the development and function of all living organisms. DNA is responsible for storing genetic information, while RNA plays a crucial role in protein synthesis and gene expression.

Enzymes

Enzymes are biological molecules that act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions in the body. They are highly specific, meaning they only work on one particular substrate or reaction. Enzymes are essential for many bodily functions, including digestion, metabolism, and energy production.

Water

Water is a vital biomolecule that makes up approximately 60% of an adult's body weight. It plays a crucial role in many biological processes, including temperature regulation, waste removal, and cell transport. Water also helps to facilitate chemical reactions and maintain the structure and function of cells.

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