Question

Biology: Topic - Molecules of Life

1. How many bonds can a carbon atom have?

2. Explain (Understand) that functional groups provide molecules with new chemical characteristics.

3. Define metabolism, catabolism, anabolism

4. Define polymer, define monomer

5. List the four macromolecules of life (polymers) and the monomers that each are made up of

6. Define enzyme

7. Define carbohydrate

8. Differentiate between a monosaccharide, disaccharide, and a polysaccharide (define).

9. Compare structure and functions of starch, cellulose, glycogen, and chitin.

Answer 1

1).

The organic compounds are the biological molecules of life. Compounds having carbon attached hydrogen (at least one) are said to be organic compounds, and they are the basic components of all the living material. The atomic number of carbon is six and its valency is four.

So, carbon can form four single covalent bonds or two double bonds or one triple bond and one single bond with the hydrogen atom or other organic molecules, and thus form various biological compounds such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, and nucleotides.

2). Functional groups have different molecules and bonding patterns, which alter the chemical reactivity of the molecules. For example, alcohols are hydrophilic due to the presence of hydroxyl group.

3). Metabolism includes various chemical reactions that are taking place in the cell, it includes both the anabolism and catabolism.

Anabolism is a build-up process. It provides the cellular components necessary for maintenance of growth and repair of the body. For example, synthesis of proteins and glycogen.

Catabolism is a break down process of organic molecules to generate energy. During the first stage, the organic molecules are hydrolysed by the digestive enzymes, so this stage is caked, “hydrolysis.” Finally, the catabolism of molecules releases energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). For example, the aerobic cellular respiration process.