Biological Molecules and Reactions

All molecules are composed of:

What elements do all organisms contain?

What are the strongest chemical bonds?

Non-polar molecules dissolve in water.

All organic molecules contain __ atoms.

What do the many small steps involved in biological reactions allow?

What do many identical or similar sugar monomers form?

What are molecules built from amino acids known as?

Fundamental Concepts of Biological Molecules

Molecules consist of two or more atoms, which are made of neutrons, protons, and electrons.
Core elements present in all living organisms can be summarized as NOCH: Nitrogen, Oxygen, Carbon, and Hydrogen.

Chemical Bonds

The strongest type of chemical bond is the covalent bond, formed when atoms share electrons.

Molecular Properties

Non-polar molecules do not dissolve in water and do not mix with polar substances, exemplified by the immiscibility of oil and water, thus termed hydrophobic.

Organic Molecules

All organic molecules are characterized by the presence of carbon atoms.

Biological Reactions

Biological reactions involve multiple small steps, enabling enzymes to significantly increase the rate of these reactions; without enzymes, reactions would occur at impractically slow rates.

Carbohydrates

When multiple identical or similar sugar monomers are linked together, they create carbohydrates.

Proteins

Molecules composed of amino acids are classified as proteins, which perform various functions in biological systems.

Explore the fundamental concepts of biological molecules, including their structure and properties. This quiz covers essential definitions, types of chemical bonds, and the role of enzymes in biological reactions. Test your understanding of organic molecules and carbohydrates as well!