Biology Unit 1 Notes: Biomolecules

(1) What are the biomolecules? Molecules made of the biological elements, which all living things are made of. 4 Types: Carbohydrates Lipids Nucleic Acids Proteins Monomers = Basic building blocks, and repeating units that make up the biomolecules. Polymers = The whole biomolecule (made of monomers).

(2) Carbohydrates Structure: Function: Monomers = Monosaccharides (Simple Sugars like Glucose and Fructose) Polymers = Polysaccharides (Complex Carbs like Starch and Wheat) Function: Monosaccharides provide cells with a quick burst (short term) of energy. Polysaccharides provide cells with more intermediate energy. THINK  Why do you think people say that WHEAT is better for you than WHITE FLOUR or SUGAR?

(3) Lipids Structure: Function: Phospholipids: Monomers = Fatty Acids and Glycerol Molecules Polymers = Phospholipids, Oils, Fats Function: Phospholipids form the outer-covering (cell membranes) of cells. Oils and Fats provide cells with a source of long term energy storage. Phospholipids: Glycerol Head = Polar and Hydrophilic (“Water Loving”) Fatty Acid Tails = Non-Polar and Hydrophobic (“Water Fearing”)

(4) Nucleic Acids Structure: Function: Nucleotides: Monomers = Nucleotides Polymers = DNA and RNA Function: Provide cells with genetic instructions to make proteins. Nucleotides: Made of 3 parts  A Pentose Sugar, A Phosphate, and a Nitrogenous Base

(5) Proteins Structure: Function: Hemoglobin: Monomers = Amino Acids Polymers = Proteins or “Polypeptides”, and Enzymes Function: Create Cell Structure. Provide the physical expression of DNA / RNA. Enzymes catalyze (speed up) chemical reactions. Hemoglobin: A type of protein in your red blood cells, which allows oxygen to bind. Contains Iron in the center of the molecule.