Macromolecules Notes

Macromolecule: Large organic molecule formed by joining small organic molecules together. Made of long chain carbon “backbone”.

Polymer: Repeating units of the same molecule. Part of a macromolecule.

Macromolecules:

Group Example Function________

Carbohydrates - Bread, - Store energy (quick) - Pasta. - Cell structure

- Potatoes (cellulose)

- Candy

Lipids - Fats (saturated and -Store energy (long term)

unsaturated)

- Oils, waxes

- Phospholipids - Provide barriers

Hydrophobic

- Steroids - Cholesterol, Hormones

Nucleic Acids -DNA -Stores genetic information

-RNA -Transfer genetic information

-ATP - Stores chemical energy

Proteins

Amino acids - Muscle - Enzymes (speed reactions)

15% of body mass - Hair - Transport substances - Skin inside and between cells

- nuts - Provide structural - amino acids support for cells

- Control cell growth

- Hormones