Biomolecules and Functional Groups
RicochetScience・2 minutes read
Living organisms are composed of versatile biomolecules built upon carbon structures that form chains, branches, and rings, with functional groups determining reactivity and identity. Functional groups attached to carbon skeletons, such as hydroxyl and amino groups, lead to the creation of specific biomolecules like ethanol and amino acids, which are classified into proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and lipids based on composition and function.
Insights
- The composition and functions of biomolecules are determined by the functional groups attached to the carbon backbone, such as hydroxyl, carboxyl, amino, sulfhydryl, and phosphate groups, influencing reactivity and leading to the creation of specific biomolecules like ethanol, fatty acids, and amino acids.
- Biomolecules are categorized into proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and lipids based on their composition and functions, showcasing the diversity and complexity of living organisms' molecular structures and processes.
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Recent questions
What are biomolecules made of?
Carbon
How do functional groups affect biomolecules?
Reactivity and identity
What determines the formation of specific biomolecules?
Functional groups
How are biomolecules classified?
Proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, lipids
What are the main types of bonds in biomolecules?
Carbon to carbon, carbon to hydrogen
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Summary
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Carbon Bonds and Biomolecule Diversity
- Living organisms are made up of biomolecules containing carbon to carbon or carbon to hydrogen bonds. Carbon is versatile, bonding with various atoms like oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur, forming chains, branch chains, and ring structures. Functional groups attached to the carbon backbone determine the reactivity and identity of biomolecules.
- Functional groups like hydroxyl, carboxyl, amino, sulfhydryl, and phosphate groups attach to carbon skeletons, altering chemical reactivity. Different functional groups lead to the formation of specific biomolecules like ethanol, fatty acids, and amino acids. Biomolecules are classified into proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and lipids based on their composition and functions.
