Molecular forms and functions
by- Chloe

      What are Atoms?

A molecule is the smallest particle in a chemical or compound that has the chemical properties of that element or compound. Molecules are made up of atoms that are held together by chemical bonds. These bonds form as a result of the sharing or exchange of electrons among atoms. The atoms of certain elements readily bond with other atoms to form molecules. 

What are Macro-molecules?

A molecule containing a very large number of atoms, such as a protein, nucleic acid, or synthetic polymer.There are four major classes of biological macro-molecules. For example, carbohydrates, lipid, proteins, nucleic acids. Each of these types of macro-molecules performs a wide array of important functions within the cell. In combination, these biological macro-molecules make up the majority of a cell’s dry mass.  All the molecules both inside and outside of cells are situated in a water-based environment, and all the reactions of biological systems are occurring in that same environment.

                                                    

What are Carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates are the sugars, starches and fibers found in fruits, grains, vegetables and milk products. Though often maligned in trendy diets, carbohydrates are one of the basic food groups are important to a healthy diet. Carbohydrates provide fuel for the central nervous system and energy for working muscles. An example of a carbohydrate is, Fructose. Fructose is a monosaccharide, or single sugar, that has the same chemical formula as glucose but a different molecular structure. Sometimes called fruit sugar, fructose is found in fruit, some vegetables, honey, and other plants. Fructose and other sugars are carbohydrates, an important source of energy for the body.

         

What are Lipids?

Any of a class of organic compounds that are fatty acids or their derivatives and are insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. Lipids serve as the energy-storage depot for organisms and also provide thermal insulation. An example of a lipid is triglyceride. Triglyceride is an ester formed from glycerol and three fatty acid groups. Triglycerides are the main constituents of natural fats and oils, and high concentrations in the blood indicate an elevated risk of stroke.

       

What are Proteins?

A protein molecule is very large compared with molecules of sugar or salt and consists of many amino acids joined together to form long chains. Proteins do most of the work in cells and are required for the structure, function, and regulation of the body's tissues and organs. An example of a protein is a hemoglobin. A hemoglobin is a red protein responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood of vertebrates. Its molecule comprises four sub units, each containing an iron atom bound to a heme group.   

What are Nucleic Acids?

Nucleic acid, naturally occurring Chemical compound that is capable of being broken down to yield phosphoric acid sugars, and a mixture of organic bases. Nucleic acids are the main information-carrying molecules of the cell, and, by directing the process of protein synthesis, they determine the inherited characteristics of every living thing. An example of a nucleic acid is DNA. DNA is the master blueprint for life and constitutes the genetic material in all free-living organisms and most viruses.