Biomolecules Flashcards
(25 cards)
What are the four main classes of biomolecules?
The four main classes of biomolecules are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
What is the primary function of carbohydrates in living organisms?
Carbohydrates are primarily used as a source of energy in living organisms.
What are examples of simple carbohydrates?
Examples of simple carbohydrates include glucose, fructose, and sucrose.
What is the main function of lipids in cells?
Lipids serve as energy storage molecules and form the structure of cell membranes.
What are the building blocks of proteins?
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.
What is the function of proteins in living organisms?
Proteins have a wide variety of functions, including acting as enzymes, hormones, and antibodies.
What is the structure of nucleic acids?
Nucleic acids are made up of nucleotides, which consist of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
What are the two main types of nucleic acids?
The two main types of nucleic acids are DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid).
What is the role of DNA in cells?
DNA contains the genetic information that is passed from one generation to the next and directs protein synthesis.
What is the function of RNA in cells?
RNA plays a key role in protein synthesis by translating the genetic information from DNA into proteins.
True or False: Carbohydrates are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
True
Fill in the blank: Lipids are hydrophobic molecules, meaning they are ________.
insoluble in water
Which biomolecule is responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information?
Nucleic acids
What is the primary function of enzymes in cells?
Enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required.
What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats?
Saturated fats have no double bonds between carbon atoms, while unsaturated fats have one or more double bonds.
What is the bond that connects amino acids in a protein chain?
Peptide bond
Which biomolecule provides a protective barrier for cells and regulates what enters and exits the cell?
Lipids
What is the function of carbohydrates in cell recognition and signaling?
Carbohydrates on cell surfaces play a role in cell recognition and signaling processes.
True or False: Nucleic acids are involved in the synthesis of proteins.
True
What are the two main types of nucleic acids in cells?
DNA and RNA
What is the primary function of carbohydrates in living organisms?
Carbohydrates serve as a major energy source for cells and play a structural role in some organisms.
What is the function of phospholipids in cell membranes?
Phospholipids help form the lipid bilayer of cell membranes and regulate the passage of molecules in and out of cells.
What is the role of proteins in cell communication?
Proteins can act as receptors on cell surfaces and facilitate communication between cells.
Fill in the blank: Nucleotides are the building blocks of ________.
nucleic acids
