3.1.1 Monomers and Polymers

Question 1

Define the terms monomer and polymer:

Answer 1

Monomer: small units from which larger molecules are made.

Polymer: large molecule made up of many similar / identical monomers joined together.

Question 2

Give three examples of a monomer and 3 examples of a polymer

Answer 2

Monomer: Monosaccharide, Amino Acid and nucleotide

Polymer: Polysaccharide, Polypeptide and DNA/RNA.

Question 3

What is a condensation reaction?

Answer 3

A condensation reaction:
* Joins 2 molecules together.
* Elimination of a water molecule.
* Formation of a chemical bond e.g. glycosidic bond.

Question 4

What is a hydrolysis reaction?

Answer 4

• Separates 2 molecules.
• Addition of a water molecule.
• Breakage of a chemical bond e.g. glycosidic bond.

Question 5

How are carbohydrates classified into their 3 groups and what are the three groups?

Answer 5

1. Determined by how many units they are made of.
2. Monosaccharides
3. Disaccharides
4. Polysaccharides

Question 6

What are Monosaccharides? Give 3 examples.

Answer 6

Monosaccharides are the monomers from which larger carbohydrates are made.
* E.g. glucose, galactose and fructose.

Question 7

Remember to know how to draw them.