Unit 2 Flashcards
(53 cards)
What is a polymer?
Repeating units
Polymers are large molecules made up of smaller subunits called monomers.
What are monomers?
Individual subunits
Monomers are the building blocks of polymers.
What are the four macromolecules the body needs?
- Carbohydrates
- Lipids
- Proteins
- Nucleic acids
These macromolecules are essential nutrients that the body must consume.
What is metabolism?
All the chemical processes carried out by cells
Metabolism includes reactions such as those catalyzed by enzymes.
What are the three different structures of carbohydrates?
- Monosaccharides
- Disaccharides
- Polysaccharides
These structures define the complexity of carbohydrates.
What are monosaccharides?
3-7 carbons with hydrogen and oxygen atoms
Monosaccharides are simple sugars like glucose.
What is the function of carbohydrates?
- Provides materials to build cell membrane
- Provides quick energy for the cells
Carbohydrates are crucial for energy and structural purposes.
Give an example of a monosaccharide.
Glucose
Glucose is a primary energy source for cells.
What are lipids also known as?
Fats
Lipids include various molecules that are hydrophobic.
What is the structure of lipids?
Doesn’t dissolve in water; glycerol attached to one or more fatty acids
Lipids form essential components of cell membranes.
What is the primary function of lipids?
Good for long term energy
Lipids store more energy compared to carbohydrates.
What are triglycerides?
3 glycerols bonded with 3 fatty acids
Triglycerides are a common form of fat storage in the body.
What are proteins made of?
Peptides joined together by peptide bonds
Proteins are composed of amino acids, which are the building blocks.
What is the function of proteins?
- Build and repair muscles and cell membranes
- Act as catalysts (enzymes)
- Fight infections
Proteins play a vital role in numerous biological processes.
How many different amino acids exist?
20
These amino acids combine in various sequences to form different proteins.
What are the two types of nucleic acids?
- Ribonucleic acid (RNA)
- Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
These nucleic acids are essential for genetic information and protein synthesis.
What is the function of nucleic acids?
Tell the cells what to do
Nucleic acids direct growth and development of all organisms.
What do enzymes do?
Catalyze breakdown of macromolecules into smaller subunits
Enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions.
What are minerals?
Inorganic substances that enable chemical reactions and aid in tissue development, growth, and immunity
Minerals are essential for various bodily functions.
What are vitamins?
Organic substances that enable chemical reactions and aid in tissue development, growth, and immunity
Some vitamins are water-soluble while others are fat-soluble.
What is the digestive process called?
Metabolism
Metabolism includes breaking down macromolecules so cells can absorb nutrients.
Fill in the blank: The alimentary canal extends from the mouth to the _______.
anus
The alimentary canal is a continuous tube that processes food.
What is most of the blood made out of?
Most of the blood is made out of plasma
What is the subunit of protiens and an example?
amino acids, example: some enzymes