Overview
This lecture introduces the four major biomolecules essential to life, discusses their building blocks (monomers), functions, and the key elements that compose them.
Biomolecules and Monomers
- Biomolecules are large molecules necessary for life and are built from smaller units called monomers.
- The four major biomolecules are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
Carbohydrates
- Carbohydrates (carbs) provide a fast source of energy.
- Foods high in carbs include pasta and bread.
- The monomer of carbohydrates is called a monosaccharide.
Lipids
- Lipids, also known as fats, provide long-term energy storage and insulation.
- Lipids are important components of cell membranes.
- The building blocks of lipids are fatty acids and glycerol.
- Examples include butter, oil, and cholesterol.
Proteins
- Proteins are essential for muscle building, immune system function, and serve as enzymes.
- Foods high in protein include meats and beans.
- Amino acids are the monomers of proteins.
- DNA codes for proteins that determine structure and function in the body.
Nucleic Acids
- Nucleic acids include DNA and RNA, which store and transfer genetic information.
- The monomer of nucleic acids is a nucleotide.
- Plants and animals have DNA; all life contains nucleic acids.
Elements in Biomolecules
- Carbohydrates and lipids are made of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) — "CHO".
- Proteins contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen — "CHON".
- Nucleic acids contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorous — "CHONP".
- The arrangement of these elements (rings or chains) affects the function of each biomolecule.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Biomolecule — a large molecule essential for life, made of smaller monomers.
- Monomer — the building block of a larger molecule.
- Monosaccharide — the monomer of carbohydrates.
- Fatty Acid — one type of lipid building block.
- Glycerol — one type of lipid building block.
- Amino Acid — the monomer of proteins.
- Nucleotide — the monomer of nucleic acids.
- Enzyme — a protein that speeds up chemical reactions.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Write and memorize the mnemonic: CHO, CHO, CHON, CHONP.
- Search for illustrations showing the arrangements of elements in biomolecules.