Biomolecules overview Flashcards
What are biomolecules?
A molecule that is involved in the maintenance and metabolic processes of living organisms.
What are the functions of Lipids?
- Structural components of biological membranes
- Provide energy reserves in the form of triglycerides
- Serve as vitamins and hormones
- Lipid solubilisation
What is a saturated Lipid?
There are no double bonds present
What is an unsaturated Lipid?
There is at least 1 double bond present which causes a kink in the structure
Describe the structure of a Lipid
A lipid is comprised of a Carboxyl group and a Hydrocarbon chain
How can lipids be classified?
- Fatty acids
- Cholesterol
- Lipoproteins
What does the R stand for in the structure of an amino acid?
R = side chain
What is a side chain?
A side chain is a section of an Amino acids structure. This differs in each amino acid.
How can side chains be classified?
- Hydrophobic
- Hydrophilic
- In-between
What is the role of Peptide bonds in amino acids?
Peptide bonds form between the N=H of one amino acid and the C=O of another.
What do amino acids form?
- Proteins.
What is the chemical formula for carbohydrates?
(CH2O)n
Describe the structure of an Aldehyde.
An aldehyde has the top carbon atom single bonded to a Hydrogen and double bonded to an Oxygen (H-C=O)
Describe the structure of a Ketone.
A Ketone has a double bonded carbon to oxygen on the second carbon down.
What does ABBA stand for?
Alpha below
Beta above