1. Carbon Based Molecules
Biochemistry
Carbon Based Molecules

2. 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.

3. 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

4. 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

5. Organic Compounds
Carbohydrates
Lipids
Proteins
Nucleic Acids

6. 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

7. Monomers  Polymer

8. Monomers / Polymer

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

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