Chemical Compounds in Cells Note Taking Guide

Elements An element is any substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances. It’s smallest unit is the atom. When two or more elements combine chemically, they form a compound. Its smallest unit is called a molecule.

Complete this map organic compounds carbohydrates lipids proteins nucleic acids sugar starches fats & cholesterol amino acids DNA RNA

Organic vs. Inorganic Compounds that do not contain carbon are called inorganic compounds.

Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are energy-rich compounds made of the elements carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen (CH20) Cells use carbohydrates for producing energy.

Proteins Proteins form parts of cell membranes and many parts of the cell’s organelles. The small molecules that make up proteins are called amino acids. Enzymes are types of proteins that speed up chemical reactions in a living thing.

Lipids List three types of lipids: Fats, oils, waxes Like carbohydrates, lipids are energy-rich compounds, made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Cells store energy in lipids to use later.

Nucleic Acids Nucleic acids are very large organic molecules that contain genetic material. There are two kinds of nucleic acids: DNA and RNA

Water 4 ways cells use water: Solvent to dissolve things. Helps chemical reactions take place. Helps cells maintain size and shape. Helps keep temperature stable.