chapter 3: macromolecules Flashcards
what is a macromolecule
larger molecules that are needed to complete biological processes
what are the 4 major classes macromolecules
- carbohydrates
- lipids
- proteins
- nucleic acids
what is the major simiularity of the four classes of macromolecules
they all contain carbon in their structures
what are macromolecules made of
the are composed of individual monomers which are composed of polymers that are linked by covalent bonds
what is dehydration synthesis
a process where water is released in order to make smaller monomers into larger molecules (two monosaccharides are then linked by a covalent bond)
which macromolecules use dehydration synthesis
sugars and proteins
what is hydrolysis
the process of breaking polymers down into individual monomers (water serves as a reactant)
what are enzymes
biological molecules that catalyze reaction
which process do enzymes catalyze and how?
- dehydration: forms bonds and provides the system with the energy needed
- hydrolysis: breaks bonds and releases energy from the system
