Biological Molecules: Monomers and Polymers: In Depth

Question 1

Describe how CONDENSATION REACTIONS OCCUR between 2 MONOMERS

Answer 1

-Interaction between HYDROXYL GROUPS
-OH MOLECULE from 1 unit joins with H MOLECULE from another
-Removes a H2O Molecule and leaves a COVALENT BOND

Question 2

Describe how HYDROLYSIS REACTIONS OCCUR between 2 MONOMERS

Answer 2

-Involves ADDITION of a WATER MOLECULE
-Adds 1 OH MOLECULE to 1 unit
-Adds 1 H MOLECULE to the other to make up single monomers again

Question 3

What is the term given to the FORMATION of POLYMERS? What do they create?

Answer 3

POLYMERISATION
They create MACRO-MOLECULES such as PROTEINS and POLYSACCHARIDES

Question 4

What kind of MOLECULE is OXYGEN in terms of CHARGE? What BONDS hold WATER MOLECULES TOGETHER?

Answer 4

-Water is a DIPOLE MOLECULE
-Water molecules are held by HYDROGEN BONDS, and also creates SURFACE TENSION