11 Questions
What is the primary function of RNA in protein synthesis?
To play a crucial role in protein synthesis
What is the building block of proteins?
Amino acids
Which type of carbohydrate provides structural support in plant cell walls?
Cellulose
What is the primary function of triglycerides?
To store energy in adipose tissue
What is the main function of phospholipids in cells?
To be a major component of cell membranes
What is the double-stranded molecule that contains genetic instructions for an organism?
DNA
What is the term for the 3D shape of a protein, influenced by hydrogen bonds and disulfide bonds?
Tertiary structure
What is the function of enzymes?
To catalyze chemical reactions
What is the monomer unit of carbohydrates?
Monosaccharide
What is the primary function of hormones?
To regulate various cellular activities
What is the type of lipid that is a major component of cell membranes?
Phospholipid
Study Notes
Nucleic Acids
- Definition: Molecules that contain the genetic instructions for an organism
-
Types:
- DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid): Double-stranded, found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells
- RNA (Ribonucleic acid): Single-stranded, found in the cytoplasm of cells
-
Structure:
- Nucleotides: Building blocks of nucleic acids, composed of sugar, phosphate, and nitrogenous base
- Helix structure: Double helix in DNA, single strand in RNA
-
Functions:
- Genetic information storage: DNA and RNA contain genetic instructions for an organism
- Protein synthesis: RNA plays a crucial role in protein synthesis
Proteins
- Definition: Large, complex molecules that perform a wide range of functions in the cell
-
Structure:
- Amino acids: Building blocks of proteins, 20 different types
- Polypeptide chain: Linear sequence of amino acids
- Tertiary structure: 3D shape of a protein, influenced by hydrogen bonds and disulfide bonds
-
Functions:
- Enzymes: Catalyze chemical reactions
- Structural proteins: Provide structure and support for cells and tissues
- Transport proteins: Transport molecules and ions across cell membranes
- Hormones: Regulate various cellular activities
Carbohydrates
- Definition: Molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, often in a 1:2:1 ratio
-
Types:
- Monosaccharides: Simple sugars, such as glucose and fructose
- Disaccharides: Composed of two monosaccharides, such as sucrose and lactose
- Polysaccharides: Long chains of monosaccharides, such as starch and cellulose
-
Functions:
- Energy source: Provide energy for cells
- Structural component: Cellulose provides structural support in plant cell walls
Lipids
- Definition: Molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, often with a hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail
-
Types:
- Triglycerides: Composed of glycerol and three fatty acid chains
- Phospholipids: Composed of glycerol, two fatty acid chains, and a phosphate group
-
Functions:
- Energy storage: Triglycerides provide energy storage in adipose tissue
- Cell membrane structure: Phospholipids are a major component of cell membranes
Test your knowledge of biomolecules, including nucleic acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, and their structures, functions, and importance in cells. Learn about the different types and functions of each biomolecule. Practice questions to help you understand the basics of biomolecules in biology.
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