Carbon Based Molecules Biochemistry Carbon Based Molecules

What you need to know! The properties of carbon that make it so important The role of dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis in the formation and breakdown of organic compounds.

Biochemistry All biochemical molecules contain: C, O, H, Some can contain: N, S, P C is the backbone element all organic chemistry (biochemistry) Carbon engages in 4 covalent bonds Very small and stable Can make chains, rings, branches

Structure and Function A major theme in biochemistry The shape of the molecule determines its job Ex: Some molecules have the same chemical formula but different shapes (isomers): C6H12O6

Organic Compounds Carbohydrates Lipids Proteins Nucleic Acids

Organic Compounds All organic compounds are macromolecules most are also polymers Made from small subunits called monomers (except lipids) Structure of polymer directly impacts its function

Monomers  Polymer

Monomers / Polymer

Making Polymers Monomers are glued together to form large macromolecules Gluing = condensation reaction (aka: dehydration synthesis) Chemical reaction also produces H2O

Breaking Polymers Polymers are reduced to monomers (subunits) Breaking = hydrolysis reaction Chemical reaction also consumes H2O