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In order for life to exist, organisms must exchange matter and energy with their environment. They need these in order to grow, reproduce, and complete other processes. Atoms and molecules are the foundation of building new molecules. On earth, organic molecules are structured around carbon and carbon is the central element of the biological molecules used in all organisms. In the subsequent sections, we will discuss the structures of the main classes of molecules that support life.
Introduction to Biological Macromolecules
Macromolecules are large, complex molecules that form the basis of life. There are four major classes of biological macromolecules: carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. In this guide, we will discuss the monomers, composition, and function of each of the four classes of macromolecules.
Each type of macromolecule has its own role in biological processes and understanding these macromolecules is the basis to understanding other cell processes. These macromolecules are all made of smaller subunits (monomers) that are linked together to make the larger molecules (polymers). This process of linking monomers together is important as the order, directionality, and way they are assembled, influences the structure and function of the macromolecule.
Hydrolysis and Dehydration Synthesis
Hydrolysis and dehydration synthesis are used to cleave and form covalent bonds between monomers. Dehydration synthesis is the process of creating a covalent bond between monomers by releasing a water molecule. Since dehydration synthesis involves forming bonds, energy is required. This is the primary method by which biological macromolecules are built. Hydrolysis is the opposite of dehydration synthesis. Hydrolysis is the process of breaking a covalent bond between monomers by using a water molecule. This divides a polymer into smaller sections or into its smaller monomer units. Hydrolysis results in a net release of energy. More energy is release than is need to move the reaction forward. One example of this is the digestion of food, where macromolecules are broken into smaller pieces that can be absorbed and used throughout the body.
