biomolecules Flashcards
Memorize biomelocules and their functions
what are the four major types of biomolecules?
proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids
which are the six elements that most living matter is composed of?
carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorous and sulfur
how many covalent bonds can carbon form?
4
how many covalent bonds can hydrogen form?
1
how many covalent bonds can nitrogen form?
3
how many covalent bonds can oxygen form?
2
how many covalent bonds can phosphorous form?
5
how many covalent bonds can sulfur form?
2
in which environment do biological reactions most commonly occur?
aqueous environments; within watery environments
what are functional groups?
small groups of atoms that are common in biomolecules which confer specific chemical properties when attached to larger molecules such as biomolecules
how do multiple monomers become polymers such as protein and nucleic acids?
through a series of condensation reactions
how are polymers such as carbohydrates broken down / reverted back to monomers?
through hydrolysis reactions
what is the function of enzymes?
catalyze biochemical reactions
what is the function of structural proteins?
provide physical stability and movement
what is the function of defensive proteins?
recognize and respond to nonself substances (e.g., antibodies)