Organic Molecules Flashcards
What are the four main organic molecules found in living organisms?
Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids
Which organic molecule is the primary source of energy for cells?
Carbohydrates
What is the main function of lipids in living organisms?
Energy storage, insulation, and cell membrane structure
What are the building blocks of proteins?
Amino acids
What is the function of proteins in living organisms?
Enzymes, structure, transport, and defense
Which organic molecule carries genetic information in cells?
Nucleic acids
What are the two types of nucleic acids found in cells?
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid)
What is the function of DNA in cells?
Stores genetic information
What is the function of RNA in cells?
Translates genetic information into proteins
Which organic molecule is composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in a 1:2:1 ratio?
Carbohydrates
Which organic molecule is hydrophobic and insoluble in water?
Lipids
What are the three types of lipids?
Triglycerides, phospholipids, and steroids
What is the function of triglycerides in living organisms?
Long-term energy storage and insulation
What is the monomer unit of carbohydrates?
Monosaccharides
What is the polymer of nucleic acids?
Nucleotides
What is the primary function of carbohydrates in living organisms?
Quick energy source and structural support
What is the primary function of nucleic acids in living organisms?
Store and transmit genetic information
Which organic molecule is composed of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sometimes sulfur?
Proteins
What are the four levels of protein structure?
Primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary
What is denaturation of a protein?
Loss of its structure and function due to heat, pH, or chemicals
Which organic molecule is the most diverse and versatile in terms of function?
Proteins
What is the function of phospholipids in cell membranes?
Form a lipid bilayer for cell membrane structure
What is the main function of steroids in living organisms?
Regulate metabolic activities and act as hormones
