Here's a summary of macromolecules/biomolecules, including monomers, elements, functions, and examples for each category:
Carbohydrates
- Monomer (Building Block): Monosaccharides
- Elements: Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O)
- Function: Provide quick energy, serve as structural components, and play a role in cell signaling.
- Example: Glucose, Fructose, Sucrose, Starch, Cellulose.
Lipids
- Monomer (Building Block): Fatty acids and Glycerol
- Elements: Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O) (and Phosphorus (P) for phospholipids)
- Function: Store long-term energy, form cell membranes, and act as signaling molecules (hormones).
- Example: Triacylglycerols (fats and oils), Phospholipids, Cholesterol, Steroids.
Proteins
- Monomer (Building Block): Amino acids
- Elements: Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O), Nitrogen (N), and sometimes Sulfur (S)
- Function: Catalyze biochemical reactions (enzymes), provide structure, transport molecules, and regulate processes (hormones).
- Example: Hemoglobin (oxygen transport), Enzymes (like catalase), Antibodies (immune response), Collagen (structural).
Nucleic Acids
- Monomer (Building Block): Nucleotides
- Elements: Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O), Nitrogen (N), and Phosphorus (P)
- Function: Store and transmit genetic information; guide protein synthesis.
- Example: DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid), RNA (Ribonucleic Acid).
This summary encapsulates key aspects of the four main macromolecules essential for life.