Structure Of Molecules Flashcards
What is dehydration synthesis? What role does water play?
Dehydration synthesis is when occurs when two molecules/monomers are joined to form a large molecule/polymer following the removal of water. The monomers combine with one another using covalent bonds to form polymers.
Water is a byproduct of dehydration synthesis.
“To put together while losing water”
What is hydrolysis? What role does water play?
Hydrolysis is the process of polymers breaking down/decomposing into monomers. This process requires water. Water is used to split the chemical bonds that exist between polymers.
Water is a reactant.
“To split water”
What is a polymer? What are examples of polymers?
A polymer is any class of substance that is compose of very large molecules which are repeating multiples of simpler monomers. A polymer is a chain of 3 or more units of monomers.
Examples: DNA, proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids.
What is a monomer? What are examples of monomers?
Monomers are atoms or small molecules that bond together to form more complex structures called polymers.
Examples: sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, and nucleotides.
