Molecules Of Life Flashcards
What is evidence for evolution?
Information that supports the theory of evolution.
What is the theory of evolution?
The theory that all organisms on Earth are descended from one or a few common ancestors and that they have changed and diversified over time.
How do we know that all organisms on Earth are descended from common ancestors?
Because they all share some biochemistry.
What biochemistry do all organisms share?
They all contain the same groups of carbon-based compounds that interact in similar ways.
What is an example of organisms all having the same biochemistry (carbon-based compounds)?
- They use the same nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) as genetic material.
- They use the same amino acids to build proteins.
What are polymers?
Large, complex molecules composed of long chains of monomers joined together.
What are monomers?
Small basic molecular units that can chemically join together to form polymers.
What are some examples of polymers?
- Carbohydrates
- Proteins
- Nucleic acids
What are some examples of monomers?
- Monosaccharides
- Amino acids
- Nucleotides
What can the monomer examples do?
Form the polymer examples.
How are polymers formed?
Through condensation reactions.
How are polymers formed by condensation reactions?
The condensation reaction forms a chemical bond between monomers, releasing a molecule of water.
What does a condensation reaction look like?
Image
How are polymers broken down?
Through hydrolysis reactions.
How are polymers broken down by hydrolysis reactions?
The hydrolysis reaction breaks the chemical bond between monomers using a molecule of water.
