Macromolecules Flashcard- AP Biology

Front

What are macromolecules?

Back

Macromolecules are large, complex molecules that are essential for life, including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids.

Front

What is the primary function of carbohydrates?

Back

Carbohydrates serve as a main source of quick energy for living organisms.

Front

What are lipids primarily used for in the body?

Back

Lipids are primarily used for insulation, energy storage, and forming cell membranes.

Front

Define proteins and their role in the body.

Back

Proteins are macromolecules made of amino acids that perform a variety of functions, including catalyzing biochemical reactions (enzymes), providing structure, and facilitating communication.

Front

What are nucleic acids and their function?

Back

Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are macromolecules that store and transmit genetic information.

Front

What is the structure of a lipid?

Back

Lipids are composed of glycerol and fatty acids, and they can be saturated or unsaturated based on the presence of double bonds.

Front

What is a peptide bond?

Back

A peptide bond is a covalent bond that links amino acids together to form proteins.

Front

What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats?

Back

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

Front

What are the building blocks of proteins?

Back

The building blocks of proteins are amino acids.

Front

What is the role of enzymes?

Back

Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions in the body.