1. Carbon-Based Molecules
Section 2.3
Carbon-Based Molecules

2. Carbon atoms have unique bonding properties
Carbon  an element that makes up the structure of living things and carries out most of the processes that keep organisms alive
It is often called the “Building Block of Life”
Carbon can bind to other carbons
Monomer  a small subunit (or link) in a larger chain of carbon-based molecules

3. Polymer  a large molecule or macromolecule that is made of many monomers bonded together

4. Carbon forms chains and rings when bonded together:

5. Carbon loves to bond to other atoms
Why??

6. Four main types of carbon-based molecules are found in living things
Carbohydrate  molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen
Examples: sugars, starches, fruit, bread, pasta
Building Block: monosaccharides

7. Function: source of quick energy when broken down and a major part of plant cell structure
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8. Lipid  nonpolar molecules that contain chains of carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen and oxygen atoms
Examples: fats, oils, cholesterol, lard, grease
Building Block: glycerol and fatty acids

9. Function: can be broken down as a source of long-term energy and can also be part of a cell’s structure
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10. Lipids Saturated vs.Unsaturated
Fatty Acids (building blocks of Lipids) can be
SATURATED or UNSATURATED
Saturated fatty acids
max number of single bonds for carbon with hydrogen
No C=C double bonds
C-C-C-C-C-C-C-C-C
Makes the molecule straight = solid
Unsaturated Fatty Acids
Fewer than max number of bonds for carbon with hydrogen
**Has at least one or more C=C double bonds
C-C-C=C-C=C-C=C
Makes the molecule bent/kinked = Liquid

11. Protein  a polymer made of monomers called amino acids
Protein  a polymer made of monomers called amino acids. They contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sometimes sulfur
Examples: red meat, muscle, hair, beans, nuts
Building Block: Amino acids

12. Function: involved in virtually all cell functions
Function: involved in virtually all cell functions. Each protein has a specific function, which may include structural support, bodily movement, and defense against germs
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13. Nucleic Acids  polymers that are made up of monomers called nucleotides
Examples: DNA and RNA
Building Block: nucleotides (phosphate group, sugar, nitrogen base)

14. Function: work together to make proteins
Function: work together to make proteins. DNA stores the information for putting amino acids together to make proteins. DNA also stores genetic information
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