Unit 3, List 1, Macromolecule. Flashcards
Macromolecule
Any very large molecule, usually with a diameter ranging from about 100 to 10000 angstroms.
Organic
Involving organisms or the products of their life processes.
Monomer
Atoms or small molecules that bond together to form more complex structures such as polymers.
Polymer
A substance that has a molecular structure consisting chiefly or entirely of a large number of similar units bonded together.
Carbohydrates
Organic compounds abundant in nature, serving as structural and functional components of cells.
Lipids
Fatty, waxy, or oily compounds that are soluble in organic solvents and insoluble in polar solvents such as water.
Fatty acids
A carboxylic acid consisting of a hydrocarbon chain and a terminal carboxyl group, especially any of those occurring as esters in fats and oils.
Protein
A molecule made up of amino acids.
Amino acids
Molecules that combine to form proteins.
Enzymes
A substance that acts as a catalyst in living organisms.
Catalyst
A substance that speeds up a chemical reaction, or lowers the temperature or pressure needed to start one, without itself being consumed during the reaction.
Nucleic acids
Naturally occurring chemical compounds that serve as the main information-carrying molecules of the cell.
Nucleotide
The basic building block of nucleic acids (RNA and DNA)
Hormone
Chemicals that coordinate different functions in your body by carrying messages through your blood to your organs, skin, muscles and other tissues.
Steroids
Any of a group of lipids (fats) that have a certain chemical structure.
Dehydration synthesis
When two molecules or compounds are joined to form a larger molecule following the removal of water.
Hydrolysis
A process of breaking down a chemical compound that involves splitting a bond and adding the elements of water to the resulting molecular fragments.
