Chapter 1- Biological Molecules Flashcards
(39 cards)
Monomer
Smaller units used to make larger molecules
Polymer
Molecules made from monomers joined together (complex + large)
Condensation reaction
Joins 2 monosaccharides by forming a glycosidic bond and removing water
Hydrolysis reaction
Water added to disaccharide to break the bond and release the monosaccharides.
What are the 3 monosaccharides?
Glucose, galactose, fructose
What are the two isomers of glucose?
Alpha and beta
How are disaccharides formed?
In a condensation reaction
Glucose + glucose ->
Maltose
Glucose + fructose ->
Sucrose
Glucose + galactose ->
Lactose
Test for reducing sugars
- Add equal volume of sample + Benedict’s to test tube
- Heat in water bath
- Turns red/orange
Test for non-reducing sugars
1 . Negative Benedict’s test
2. + dilute HCl + gently boil =in water bath
3. Add sodium hydrogen carbonate to neutralise
4. Repeat Benedict’s
5. Colour change if positive
Test for starch
- Add 2 drops iodine solution + shake
- Colour change to blue-black if present
Monomer in starch
Alpha glucose
Function of starch
Energy storage
How does the structure of starch relate to its function?
-Insoluble = X affect water potential
-Large = X diffuse out
-Compact = a lot in small space
-Hydrolysed into alpha glucose = easily transported for respiration
-Branched = has many ends = enzymes act simultaneously = rapid energy release
Monomer in glycogen
Alpha glucose
Function of glycogen and in what organisms?
Carbohydrate store in animals + bacteria
How does the structure of glycogen relate to its function?
-Insoluble = X affect osmosis
-Compact = lot in small space
-Highly branched = > ends to act on = rapid glucose release for respiration
Monomer in cellulose
Beta glucose (every other one is inverted)
Structure of cellulose
Straight, unbranched, parallel chains = H bonds for cross linkages for strength
How are the cellulose chains grouped?
In microfibrils + then fibres
Function of cellulose
Plant cell walls -> adds rigidity by exerting inward pressure stopping water influx and making it turgid
Roles of lipids
Cell membranes, energy, waterproofing, insulation, organ protection