Macromolecules Flashcard- AP Biology

Front

What is a macromolecule?

Back

A macromolecule is a large complex molecule, typically composed of thousands of atoms, that plays a critical role in biological processes. Examples include proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.

Front

What are the four main types of macromolecules?

Back

The four main types of macromolecules are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Front

What is the primary function of carbohydrates?

Back

Carbohydrates serve as a primary source of energy for living organisms and are also involved in structural functions.

Front

What are lipids primarily used for in the body?

Back

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

Front

What are proteins made of?

Back

Proteins are made of long chains of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds.

Front

What is the basic unit of carbohydrates?

Back

The basic unit of carbohydrates is the monosaccharide, such as glucose.

Front

What is the role of nucleic acids?

Back

Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information.

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, making them liquid at room temperature.

Front

What is the primary structure of a protein?

Back

The primary structure of a protein refers to the specific sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain.

Front

What are monomers?

Back

Monomers are the basic building blocks of macromolecules. Examples include monosaccharides for carbohydrates, fatty acids for lipids, amino acids for proteins, and nucleotides for nucleic acids.