Sect 3.1 to 3.4 Flashcard Biological Molecules

Front

What is the primary function of lipids in the body?

Back

Lipids serve as a major source of energy, provide insulation, and are essential for the formation of cell membranes.

Front

Which biological molecule is primarily responsible for storing genetic information?

Back

Nucleic acids, specifically DNA, are responsible for storing genetic information.

Front

What is the basic building block of proteins?

Back

The basic building block of proteins is an amino acid.

Front

Define a carbohydrate. What are its main functions?

Back

Carbohydrates are organic compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, primarily serving as a source of energy and structural support in cells.

Front

What is an atom?

Back

An atom is the simplest form of an element, consisting of a nucleus surrounded by electrons.

Front

What are the two main types of nucleic acids?

Back

The two main types of nucleic acids are DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid).

Front

How do enzymes function in biological reactions?

Back

Enzymes act as catalysts that speed up biological reactions by lowering the activation energy required.

Front

What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats?

Back

Saturated fats contain no double bonds between carbon atoms, while unsaturated fats contain one or more double bonds.

Front

What role do carbohydrates play in cellular respiration?

Back

Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is used in cellular respiration to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell.

Front

What is a molecule?

Back

A molecule is a group of two or more atoms bonded together, representing the smallest fundamental unit of a chemical compound.