Chapter 1: Problem 4

What are the four major types of biomolecules?

Short Answer

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Answer: The four major types of biomolecules are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Carbohydrates serve as a primary source of energy for cells and components of some cellular structures. Lipids are an important source of stored energy and structural components of cell membranes. Proteins have various biological functions, such as catalyzing chemical reactions, providing structural support, and transporting molecules. Nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA, are responsible for carrying genetic information and participating in gene expression and protein synthesis.

Step by step solution

Identify the four major types of biomolecules

The four major types of biomolecules are: 1. Carbohydrates 2. Lipids 3. Proteins 4. Nucleic acids Next, we will define and describe each type of biomolecule.

Define and describe carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are macromolecules that are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They serve as a primary source of energy for cells and are also important components of some cellular structures. There are three main types of carbohydrates: monosaccharides (e.g. glucose), disaccharides (e.g. sucrose), and polysaccharides (e.g. starch, cellulose).

Define and describe lipids

Lipids are a diverse group of biomolecules that are primarily composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, with some containing additional elements like phosphorus and nitrogen. They are insoluble in water and are an important source of stored energy, as well as structural components of cell membranes. Some common types of lipids include triglycerides, phospholipids, and sterols (e.g. cholesterol).

Define and describe proteins

Proteins are large, complex biomolecules composed of one or more chains of amino acids. They are essential for various biological functions, such as catalyzing chemical reactions (enzymes), providing structural support for cells and tissues, and transporting molecules across cell membranes. Proteins are made up of 20 different types of amino acids, which are combined in various sequences to form unique molecules.

Define and describe nucleic acids

Nucleic acids are long, chain-like biomolecules made up of nucleotide subunits, which consist of a sugar, phosphate, and nitrogenous base. There are two types of nucleic acids: deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA). DNA is the genetic material of all living organisms, carrying the information required for cellular functions and reproduction. RNA is involved in various aspects of gene expression, including the synthesis of proteins.

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What are the four major types of biomolecules?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Identify the four major types of biomolecules

Define and describe carbohydrates

Define and describe lipids

Define and describe proteins

Define and describe nucleic acids

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