Introduction to Biological Molecules and Cell Structure Flashcards
What are the two types of cells?
- Prokaryotic Cell
- Eukaryotic Cell
What are the two roles small molecules play?
- Building blocks for macromolecules.
- Specific functions
What is composition of a cell made up of?
List 4 key components
- Water
- Inorganic Ions
- Small Organic Molecules
- Macromolecules
What is the proportion of the total cell weight with all the different components?
Water = 70%
Macromolecules = 26%
Small Organic Molecules = 3%
Inorganic Ions = 1%
What is the formula of carbohydrates?
(CH2O)n
What is the function of carbohydrates?
Energy Storage / Fuel / Metabolite / Structural Element.
What are the main two types of monosaccharides in carbohydrates?
- Ketones = ketone based
- Aldoses = aldehyde based
Do monosaccharides have chiral centres?
If so what is another name for chiral centres?
Yes = They have chiral centres.
Known as enantiomers.
What is the difference between ketone and aldose?
The position of the c = o bond differs.
In ketose -> the bond is in the middle.
In aldose -> the bond is at the end.
Name two examples of an aldose.
Glucose (also known as hexose).
Glycogen (known as hexose).
How are disaccharides formed?
Condensation Reaction = whereby H2O is released upon bond forming.
Name 3 polysaccharides.
Cellulose
Starch
Glycogen
What bond is in cellulose?
Beta 1 - 4 glycosidic bond
What bond is in starch and glycogen?
Alpha 1 - 4 glycosidic bond
Why is glycogen so compact?
There is 1,6 glycosidic bonds and therefore, the structure is coiled and tight.
What are oligosaccharides?
These are a combination of monosaccharides and therefore, create a variety of shapes.
What determines the function of a molecule?
The shape of the molecule.
Name an example of an oligosaccharide.
Blood Groups
What happens when the wrong blood type is used during a transfusion?
Clotting occurs = Known as coagulation.
What components make up an amino acid?
Amine Group
Carboxyl Acid Group
R group
Hydrogen atom
What happens when amino acids react?
Condensation reaction occurs.
Peptide bond is formed and therefore, water molecule is released.
What is the structure of proteins?
Primary
Secondary
Tertiary
Quaternary
Explain what a primary structure is.
Amino acids joined together by peptide bonds.
Forms a polymer.
Explain what a secondary structure is.
Protein chain is folded (stabilised by hydrogen bonds).
Folded to form alpha helices and beta pleated sheets.