Organic Molecules

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Carbohydrates

Elements involved: carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen

Functions of carbohydrates: they make up most plant matter, some provide energy for our bodies, and some help with structural support in plants

Proteins

Elements involved: carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur

Examples of protein polymers: gelatin and hemoglobin

Functions of proteins: they transport O2 (hemoglobin) and they act as hormones and enzymes

Lipids

Elements involved: carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen

Examples of lipids: fats, oils, and vitamins such as A, D, E, and K

Glycerol and fatty acids are the monomers that make up lipids

Functions of lipids: store energy in the body and help with digestion

Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis

Difference between monomers and polymers: monomers are small molecules, and when multiple monomers join together, they form even larger molecules called polymers

The chemical reaction that forms polymers is called polymerization and it looks like this:

The chemical reaction that breaks apart polymers into monomers is called hydrolysis and it looks like this:

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Definition of an Organic Molecule

4 Major Macromolecules

An organic molecule is usually made up of a bunch of carbon. Then, each carbon is connected to a hydrogen or oxygen.

Carbohydrates Lipids Proteins Nucleic Acids

Nucleic Acids

Elements involved: carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorous

4 different nucleic acid monomers: cytosine thymine adenine guanine

Functions of Nucleic Acids: they store and express genetic information