Overview
This lecture introduces the four major biomolecules essential for life—carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids—covering their building blocks, main functions, and key elements.
Introduction to Biomolecules
- Biomolecules are large molecules essential for life, obtained from food.
- There are four major biomolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
Monomers: The Building Blocks
- A monomer is a small unit or building block that makes up larger molecules.
Carbohydrates
- Carbohydrates provide a fast source of energy (e.g., pasta, bread).
- The monomer for carbohydrates is a monosaccharide.
- Example: Marathon runners eat high-carb meals for quick energy (carb loading).
Lipids
- Lipids, also called fats, are made from fatty acids and glycerol.
- Lipids provide long-term energy storage and insulation (e.g., blubber in seals).
- Lipids are found in foods like butter, oil, and cholesterol.
- Cell membranes are made of lipids.
- Excessive lipid intake can harm health; moderation is important.
Proteins
- Proteins are important for muscle building and are found in meats and beans.
- The monomer of proteins is the amino acid.
- Proteins function in the immune system and as enzymes.
- DNA codes for proteins that determine body structure and function.
Nucleic Acids
- Nucleic acids include DNA and RNA, which store genetic information.
- Their monomer is the nucleotide.
- Nucleic acids are found in all living things, including the foods we eat.
Major Elements in Biomolecules
- Use the mnemonic CHO, CHO, CHON, CHONP for major elements:
- Carbohydrates: Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen (CHO)
- Lipids: Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen (CHO)
- Proteins: Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen (CHON)
- Nucleic Acids: Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Phosphorus (CHONP)
- Differences in element arrangements (rings or chains) affect biomolecule properties and function.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Biomolecule — a large molecule necessary for life, often made of repeating units.
- Monomer — a single building block that forms larger molecules.
- Monosaccharide — monomer of carbohydrates.
- Fatty Acid & Glycerol — building blocks of lipids.
- Amino Acid — monomer of proteins.
- Nucleotide — monomer of nucleic acids.
- Enzyme — a protein that speeds up chemical reactions in the body.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Research and review diagrams of biomolecule structures to understand element arrangements.
- Memorize the CHO, CHO, CHON, CHONP mnemonic for major biomolecule elements.