Organic Macromolecules Key Points:
Carbohydrates (sugars) are rings of carbon providing a high amount of short term energy. Think about that candy bar, soda, or even bowl of pasta you just downed - these are high in carbohydrates and will provide you with a short burst of additional energy availability due to our ability to quickly and easily break it down into smaller, usable compounds!
Lipids (fats) are made of long hydrocarbon (hydrogen and carbon) tails extending from a central backbone of hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen. These compounds are hydrophobic (water repelling) due to their lack of overall charge.
Proteins (amino acids) are made of two consistent groups and one variable "R" side - called a functional group. The Carboxylic Acid Group and Amine Group (see above figure) will be present in every single amino acid. The manner in which each is differentiated into its own, unique amino acid is in the atoms bonded together within the variable "R" functional group. Individual amino acids are also referred to as peptides. These will join together (peptide + peptide + peptide + etc) to form long polypeptide chains called proteins! Nucleic Acids are repeating units that ultimately make up your entire genetic sequence! Once bonded together in long chains - we can call it DNA or RNA depending on its structural organization. We will have an entire unit designated for studying this unique macromolecule as well as its very important roles in maintaining life. Review your Properties of Water:
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Mr. Hulse
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