Notes – Macromolecules

Macromolecule = Giant Molecule Monomers = small molecules that can be combined in different ways Polymers = large molecules that are made of different monomer combinations

Four groups of macromolecules 1. Carbohydrates Monomer = monosaccharides (simple sugars) Polymer = polysaccharides (complex carbohydrates) Examples: starch and cellulose in plants, glycogen in animals Function = energy source and structural support

Four groups of macromolecules 2. Lipids Examples = fats, oils, waxes, steroids, phospholipids Function = energy storage and water barriers

Four groups of macromolecules 3. Nucleic Acids Monomer = nucleotides Consist of a nitrogen base, a sugar, and a phosphate group Polymer = DNA and RNA Function = store and transmit hereditary information

Four groups of macromolecules 4. Proteins Monomer = amino acids 20 different amino acids Polymer = proteins Function = very diverse, including transport, structure, and speeding chemical reactions