2nd Flashcard Biomolecules

Front

What are phospholipids?

Back

Phospholipids are molecules that form the bulk of cell membranes, consisting of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) 'head' and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) 'tails'. They help separate the cell's internal environment from the external environment.

Front

What is the primary function of proteins in cells?

Back

Proteins are the workers of the cell, performing a variety of functions including catalyzing biochemical reactions (as enzymes), providing structural support, and facilitating communication between cells.

Front

What biomolecule is responsible for producing enzymes?

Back

Proteins are responsible for producing enzymes, which are catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body.

Front

What is the role of nucleic acids in cells?

Back

Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, store and transmit genetic information, providing the code for making proteins.

Front

What are carbohydrates and their primary function?

Back

Carbohydrates are biomolecules that serve as a primary energy source for cells and play a role in cell structure and signaling.

Front

Define lipids and their significance in biology.

Back

Lipids are hydrophobic biomolecules that include fats, oils, and phospholipids, playing crucial roles in energy storage, cell membrane structure, and signaling.

Front

What is the structure of a protein?

Back

Proteins are made up of long chains of amino acids, which fold into specific three-dimensional shapes that determine their function.

Front

How do enzymes function?

Back

Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts, lowering the activation energy required for chemical reactions to occur, thus speeding up the reaction.

Front

What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats?

Back

Saturated fats have no double bonds between carbon atoms and are typically solid at room temperature, while unsaturated fats have one or more double bonds and are usually liquid at room temperature.

Front

What are the building blocks of nucleic acids?

Back

The building blocks of nucleic acids are nucleotides, which consist of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.