Macromolecules

Biology CP

MacromoleculesAre BIG molecules!• Building blocks of

cells• Small monomers

combine to form a polymer• All contain C, H, O

4 Types of Macromolecules• 1. Proteins• 2. Carbohydrates• 3. Lipids• 4. Nucleic Acids• *All are organic –

so all contain Carbon

Caloric Value• Energy is stored in the bonds• Proteins, carbs, lipids - different

structures so different caloric values• Lipids – highest caloric value• Proteins and Carbs – same value

Proteins• Functions - as enzymes, transport of

material, self-defense, body structure

Proteins• Monomer = amino acids• Contains C, H, O, and N• Are millions of different kinds

Lipid Base “Unit”• Does not have a

“true” monomer• Triglyceride = 3 fatty

acids + 1 glycerol• All lipids are

“hydrophobic” (nonpolar)

Lipids• Fats and oils – • Saturated - solid at

room temperature• Unsaturated – liquid• Lipid examples:

steroids, waxes, cholesterol

Lipids - Functions• Long term energy storage• Cushions internal organs• Insulation for body against temperature

extremes• Important in hormones and vitamins

Carbohydrates• monomer = monosaccharide or

“simple sugar” • Forms disaccharides and

polysaccharides = polymers• Forms long

chains

Carbohydrates• Important source of fiber for animals.

Most fiber is cellulose• Energy is released when bonds are

broken; is the main source of energy• Excess carbs are converted to fats

Starch and Glycogen

• Plants store energy as starch• Animals store energy as glycogen in

the liver and muscles

Order macromolecules are burned in the body

• Carbs first• Lipids second• Proteins third

Nucleic Acids• Monomer =

nucleotide • Polymer = DNA or

RNA• Store and

transmit the genetic material

Nucleotide (monomer) of DNA and RNA

• 5-carbon sugar + a phosphate + a nitrogenous base• Information in DNA is used to make

proteins

Which is DNA? Which is RNA?