9. BIOMOLECULES
The chapter discusses the chemical composition of living organisms, highlighting the types of biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and polysaccharides. It emphasizes the significance of both primary and secondary metabolites in biological processes and provides insights into the structure and function of enzymes, detailing how they catalyze biochemical reactions. Additionally, the chapter explores the role of water as the most abundant chemical in living systems and the diversity of macromolecules crucial for life.
Enroll to start learning
You've not yet enrolled in this course. Please enroll for free to listen to audio lessons, classroom podcasts and take practice test.
Sections
Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.
What we have learnt
- Living organisms are primarily composed of water, proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.
- Biomolecules can be classified into micromolecules (small molecular weight compounds) and macromolecules (like proteins and nucleic acids).
- Enzymes are proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions by lowering activation energy and enhancing reaction rates.
Key Concepts
- -- Biomolecules
- Chemical compounds found in living organisms, which can be small (micromolecules) or large (macromolecules).
- -- Proteins
- Polypeptides made of amino acids that perform a variety of functions, including acting as enzymes and hormones.
- -- Enzymes
- Proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions, lowering the activation energy and increasing reaction rates.
- -- Macromolecules
- Large biomolecules, primarily proteins, nucleic acids, and polysaccharides, that play critical roles in biological functions.
- -- Metabolites
- Small molecules involved in metabolism, classified into primary metabolites (essential for growth) and secondary metabolites (often not directly involved in growth).
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.