Very long and large organic molecules called are made of small units called . Examples of the small units include sugars, which combine to form ; nucleotides, which form ; and amino acids, which form
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Very long and large organic molecules called macromolecules are made of small units called monomers. Examples of the small units include sugars, which combine to form polysaccharides; nucleotides, which form nucleic acids; and amino acids, which form proteins.
Explanation:
Macromolecules are large molecules, typically formed by the polymerization of smaller repeating units called monomers. These macromolecules perform various critical functions in biological systems. Let’s break down each example:
- Polysaccharides (from sugars):
- Sugars, specifically monosaccharides (like glucose), are the monomers that join together through glycosidic bonds to form polysaccharides, which are complex carbohydrates. Common examples of polysaccharides include starch, glycogen, and cellulose. These large molecules serve as energy storage (glycogen and starch) and structural components (cellulose in plant cell walls).
- Nucleic acids (from nucleotides):
- Nucleotides are the monomers of nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The sequence of nucleotides in DNA determines genetic information. Nucleic acids, therefore, play a crucial role in the storage, transmission, and expression of genetic material.
- Proteins (from amino acids):
- Amino acids are the monomers that combine to form proteins. Proteins are made up of long chains of amino acids connected by peptide bonds. These macromolecules perform a vast array of functions, such as catalyzing biochemical reactions (enzymes), transporting molecules (hemoglobin), providing structural support (collagen), and defending against pathogens (antibodies).
Each class of macromolecule—polysaccharides, nucleic acids, and proteins—is essential for the functioning of living organisms, as they serve different, yet vital, roles. Their structure and function are directly linked to the type and sequence of monomers that make them up.
