Organic Compounds Essential Standard Bio.4.1 Understanding how biological molecules are essential to the survival of living organisms.

Organic Compounds Organic Molecules – contain carbon atoms covalently bonded to carbon atoms Carbon-based life form 1 carbon can form up to 4 covalent bonds Large Carbon Molecules Monomers – smaller, simpler molecule; ”one part” Polymers – consists of repeated, linked monomers; “many parts” Macromolecules – larger, complex polymers Carbohydrates, Proteins, Lipids, and Nucleic Acids

1. Carbohydrates Structure = C, H, O in 1:2:1 ratio Monomer = sugar or monosaccharides (glucose) Polymer = disaccharides (sucrose) and polysaccharides (starch) Function = energy usage (quick energy), building materials (cell wall) Food Source: Simple = sweets, candy, soda, fruits, etc. Complex = pasta, potato, bread, etc. Indicator Test: Simple = benedicts – blue to red Complex = iodine – yellow to black

2. Proteins Structure = consists of NCHOPS Monomer = amino acids 20 common amino acids Polymer = polypeptide (chain of amino acids) Function = growth and repair, enzymatic activity, cell structure Shape determines function! Food Source = meat, fish, nuts, eggs, grains, soy products Indicator Test = Biuret Solution – blue to purple

2. Proteins Enzymes – act as catalysts (essential for function of any cell) Speeds up chemical reactions by reducing amount of activation energy needed Enzyme reactions depend on physical fit between enzyme and its substrate – lock-and-key model

3. Lipids Structure = Nonpolar, hydrocarbon chain Monomer = fatty acids Saturated vs Unsaturated Polymer = fats Triglyceride, phospholipids, steroids, waxes Function = energy storage, structure component of cell membranes Food Source = meat, fish, eggs, oil, nuts, avocado, etc. Indicator Test = paper bag

4. Nucleic Acids Structure = sugar, phosphate, and nitrogen bases Monomer = nucleotide Polymer = DNA, RNA, ATP Function = stores and expresses genetic information Food Source = minerals and vitamins Indicator Test = none