Molecules of Life Flashcards
1
Q
What evidence is there that all organisms on Earth are descended from one or a few common ancestors
A
All organisms share some biochemistry, they all contain the same groups of carbon-based compounds that interact in similar ways
2
Q
What are polymers
A
Polymers are large, complex molecules composed of long chains of monomers joined together
2
Q
What are monomers
A
Small basic molecular units that can form a polymer
2
Q
How are polymers formed
A
From monomers by condensation reactions
3
Q
What is a condensation reaction
A
A reaction that forms a chemical bond between monomers releasing a molecule of water
4
Q
How are polymers broken down
A
Through hydrolysis reactions
5
Q
What is a hydrolysis reaction
A
A hydrolysis reaction breaks the chemical bond between monomers using a water molecule
