Exemplar Problems
Question:
What are macromolecules? Give examples
Answer:
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Proteins: Proteins are macromolecules composed of amino acid monomers linked together by peptide bonds. They have diverse functions in the body and serve as enzymes, structural components, antibodies, transport molecules, and more. Examples of proteins include hemoglobin, enzymes like catalase and amylase, and antibodies.
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Nucleic Acids: Nucleic acids are macromolecules responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information. There are two main types:
- DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid): DNA carries the genetic code and instructions for the development, functioning, and reproduction of organisms. It consists of a double helix structure and four nucleotide bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G).
- RNA (Ribonucleic Acid): RNA plays a role in protein synthesis and other cellular processes. It also consists of nucleotide monomers but uses uracil (U) instead of thymine (T).
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Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are macromolecules made up of sugar monomers, such as glucose and fructose. They serve as a primary energy source in living organisms and can be further categorized into sugars, starches, and cellulose. Examples include glucose, sucrose (table sugar), starch, and cellulose (found in plant cell walls).
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Lipids: Lipids are diverse macromolecules characterized by their hydrophobic nature. They include fats, phospholipids, and steroids. Lipids play essential roles in energy storage, cell membrane structure, insulation, and signaling. Examples include triglycerides (fats and oils), phospholipids (found in cell membranes), and cholesterol.
BETA
