Polymers: Large strings of repeating smaller single units that, together, make a macromolecule
Macromolecules are often made by repeating smaller, single units
Monomer: building block (simple sugars, amino and nucleic acids)
Polymer chains: store energy, carry out tasks, contain information
Chains can be broken down, monomers recycled into new chains
Small organic molecules: glucose, amino acids, nucleotides, etc.
Macromolecules: Cellulose, protein, DNA, etc.
4 Main macromolecules:
● Polysaccharides
● Proteins
● Nucleic acids
● Lipids
Atoms always seek better bonds to calm the motion of their electrons.
Opportunities to break/reform better bonds creates complex molecules from simple ones.
Energy to break those starting bonds comes from contact with other biomolecules shoving or
giving off energy.
Polymers are chains of discrete units
Individual monomers have functions of their own
, Chained monomers are used for:
● Energy storage
● Structural support
● Small machines
● Information storage
● Membranes
Polymers are assembled by stepwise condensation.
Monomers(M1) is activated by binding to a carrier molecule ( C ) that can be a protein. This can
occur if a high energy bond of ATP is broken, favoring formation of lower energy M1-C bond.
Condensation occurs when activated M1 and M2 join, releasing H2O.
Bond between M1 and C is favorable and not broken.
Macromolecules are often made by repeating smaller, single units
Monomer: building block (simple sugars, amino and nucleic acids)
Polymer chains: store energy, carry out tasks, contain information
Chains can be broken down, monomers recycled into new chains
Small organic molecules: glucose, amino acids, nucleotides, etc.
Macromolecules: Cellulose, protein, DNA, etc.
4 Main macromolecules:
● Polysaccharides
● Proteins
● Nucleic acids
● Lipids
Atoms always seek better bonds to calm the motion of their electrons.
Opportunities to break/reform better bonds creates complex molecules from simple ones.
Energy to break those starting bonds comes from contact with other biomolecules shoving or
giving off energy.
Polymers are chains of discrete units
Individual monomers have functions of their own
, Chained monomers are used for:
● Energy storage
● Structural support
● Small machines
● Information storage
● Membranes
Polymers are assembled by stepwise condensation.
Monomers(M1) is activated by binding to a carrier molecule ( C ) that can be a protein. This can
occur if a high energy bond of ATP is broken, favoring formation of lower energy M1-C bond.
Condensation occurs when activated M1 and M2 join, releasing H2O.
Bond between M1 and C is favorable and not broken.
