Biochemistry Chapter 2

The Chemistry of Carbon  4 valence electrons = very versatile  Easily bonds w/ H,O, P, S, & N  forms long chains Methane Acetylene Butadiene Benzene Isooctane

Macromolecules  join monomers = polymers  4 organic compounds (macromolecules) are: – Nucleic acids – Proteins – Carbohydrates – Lipids

EXAMPLE of POLYMER MONOMER A TRAIN? A PEARL NECKLACE? EXAMPLE of POLYMER MONOMER TrainThe cars… Pearl NecklaceEach pearl

Carbohydrates  (starch/ polysaccharide)  Monomer: monosaccharide (sugar)  Made up of C, H, O  Functions:  main source of ENERGY (Instant)  Structure (in plants… like cellulose in cell walls)

Proteins Example: enzymes  Monomers: amino acids  Elements: C, H, O, N  Functions:  Control the rate of reactions  Regulate cell processes  Form bones and muscles  Transport substances  Help fight disease  Shape is important – determines function

Nucleic Acids  Nucleic acid  Examples: DNA, RNA  Monomers: nucleotide  Elements: C, H, O, N, P  Function: Store / transmit genetic instructions  Coded instructions for making proteins  (pg. 197)

Lipids  Examples: Fats, Oils, Waxes, Steroids  Monomers: glycerol and fatty acids  Elements: C, H, O  Functions:  STORE energy  Make up biological membranes  waterproof coverings