Overview
This lecture explains how biological polymers are built from monomers through dehydration synthesis and broken down through hydrolysis.
Biological Polymers and Monomers
- Many biological molecules are polymers made from repeating subunits called monomers.
- Proteins are polymers formed from amino acid monomers.
- Complex carbohydrates are polymers formed from glucose monomers.
Dehydration Synthesis
- Dehydration synthesis is the process where monomers join to form polymers.
- Each monomer contributes either a hydrogen (H) or a hydroxyl group (OH) during the reaction.
- The hydrogen and hydroxyl group combine to form a water molecule (H₂O).
- A bond forms between the two monomers as water is released.
Hydrolysis
- Hydrolysis is the process that breaks a polymer into its monomer subunits.
- Water is added to break the bond between monomers.
- The hydroxyl group from water attaches to one monomer and the hydrogen attaches to the other.
- Hydrolysis means "to break with water."
Recap of Reactions
- Dehydration synthesis joins monomers into polymers and releases water.
- Hydrolysis adds water to split polymers into monomers.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Monomer — a small molecule that can join with others to form a polymer.
- Polymer — a large molecule made of repeating monomer units.
- Dehydration Synthesis — reaction where monomers join to form polymers, releasing water.
- Hydrolysis — reaction that uses water to break polymers into monomers.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review examples of dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis reactions in course materials.