Lecture on Biomolecules

Introduction

• Focus on 4 major biomolecules essential for life
• Importance of monomers as building blocks of biomolecules

Biomolecules Overview

• Carbohydrates

  • Source of energy, especially quick energy
  • Common in foods like pasta and bread
  • Monomer: Monosaccharide
  • Example: Marathon runners use "pasta loading" for energy

• Lipids

  • Known as fats; include butter, oils, cholesterol
  • Monomers: Fatty acids and glycerol
  • Functions: Insulation, long-term energy storage, make up cell membranes
  • Example: Harp seals have fat for warmth, swimming the English Channel requires lipid energy

• Proteins

  • Found in meats and beans; aids muscle building
  • Monomer: Amino acids
  • Functions: Immune system roles, enzymes, DNA codes for proteins

• Nucleic Acids

  • Includes DNA and RNA
  • Monomer: Nucleotide
  • Involved in genetic information and trait coding

Structure of Biomolecules

• Important to predict properties and identify them
• Mnemonic device for elements in biomolecules: CHO, CHO, CHON, CHONP
  • C: Carbon, H: Hydrogen, O: Oxygen, N: Nitrogen, P: Phosphorus
  • Structure impacts function (e.g., ring vs. chain arrangement)

Conclusion

• Encouragement to explore biomolecule arrangements
• Reminder to stay curious