macromolecules
By Grace Ericsson, Biology hour 1
Why are macromolecules so important to learn?
A macromolecule is something made of of small atoms such as synthetic polymers. The 4 main macromolecules are protein, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. They are so important for life because they are nutrients and provide energy. Macromolecules are essential for all known forms of life
Proteins
Are an essential part of all living organisms, especially as structural components of body tissues such as muscle, hair, collagen, etc., and as enzymes and antibodies. Ex: Fish, Meat, eggs, beans.
carbohydrates
They are organic compounds occurring in foods and living tissues and including sugars, starch, and cellulose. They contain hydrogen and oxygen in the same ratio as water and typically can be broken down to release energy in the animal body. Ex: Bread, pasta, rice.
lipids
any class of organic compounds that are fatty acids and they include many natural oils, waxes, and steroids. Ex: fried food, donuts, cookies, other sweets.
Nucleic Acids
Nucleic acids are essential for all known forms of life. Nucleic acids, which include DNA and RNA are made from monomers known as nucleotides or a complex organic substance present in living cells, especially DNA or RNA, whose molecules consist of many nucleotides linked in a long chain.