Macromolecules

Front

What are macromolecules?

Back

Macromolecules are large, complex molecules that are essential for life, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Front

What are the four main types of macromolecules?

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The four main types of macromolecules are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Front

What is the primary function of carbohydrates in living organisms?

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The primary function of carbohydrates is to provide energy for living organisms.

Front

What are lipids and what are their functions?

Back

Lipids are a class of macromolecules that include fats, oils, and phospholipids. They store energy, insulate the body, and make up cell membranes.

Front

What is the structure of a phospholipid?

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A phospholipid consists of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) 'head' and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) 'tails', forming a bilayer in cell membranes.

Front

What role do proteins play in biological systems?

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Proteins serve various functions including catalyzing biochemical reactions (enzymes), providing structural support, and facilitating communication between cells.

Front

What are nucleic acids and what is their primary function?

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Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are macromolecules that store and transmit genetic information.

Front

How do carbohydrates differ from lipids in terms of structure and function?

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Carbohydrates are primarily composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in a 1:2:1 ratio and mainly provide energy, while lipids are hydrophobic and serve as energy storage and structural components of cell membranes.

Front

What is the significance of the cell membrane's lipid bilayer?

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The lipid bilayer of the cell membrane provides a barrier that separates the interior of the cell from the external environment, allowing for selective permeability.

Front

What are monosaccharides and how do they relate to carbohydrates?

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Monosaccharides are the simplest form of carbohydrates, consisting of single sugar molecules like glucose and fructose, which can combine to form disaccharides and polysaccharides.