Biology: Carbohydrates, Proteins, and Lipids

Carbohydrates

• Serve as building block molecules primarily in the form of sugars.
• Functions include providing quick energy and energy storage, as well as contributing to structural components in cells.
• Types of sugars include glucose, fructose, sucrose, and maltose.

Proteins

• Known as multipurpose molecules, essential for various biological functions.
• Functions include hormone signaling (e.g., insulin), muscle movement, immune response, and acting as enzymes to facilitate chemical reactions.
• Comprised of amino acids, with 20 different types available for protein synthesis.

Amino Acids

• Formed into polymers through peptide bonds; each has distinct properties.
• Can be classified based on their affinity for water; hydrophilic amino acids are water-loving and hydrophobic amino acids are water-fearing.

Lipids

• Concentrated energy molecules, storing energy efficiently with double the energy yield compared to carbohydrates.
• Functions include energy storage, forming cell membranes, providing insulation, and cushioning organs.
• Types include saturated fats (solid at room temperature and linked to heart disease) and unsaturated fats (liquid at room temperature and healthier).
• Cholesterol plays a vital role in cell membranes and hormone synthesis, though excess levels can be detrimental.

Nucleic Acids

• Information molecules, key in genetics, consisting of DNA and RNA.
• Functions include storing genetic material, acting as a blueprint for protein synthesis, and transferring information.
• Made up of nucleotides, which possess different nitrogen bases: A, T, C, G (DNA) and U (RNA).

Water

• Exhibits polarity due to the unequal distribution of electrons, making it a good solvent for charged and polar molecules.
• Unique properties include ice being less dense than liquid water and a high heat of vaporization, contributing to temperature regulation in living organisms.

Elemental Compositions

• Carbohydrates consist of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O).
• Lipids are composed of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O).
• Nucleic acids contain carbon (C), hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P).
• Proteins consist of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), nitrogen (N), and occasionally sulfur.