5.2 Carbon – Based Life

Living organisms are made of four major groups of carbon-based molecules, i.e. carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids.

Study Guide

Explain each concept

Structure

è Carbohydrates are biochemicals composed of one or more bonded simple sugars.

è Lipids are saturated hydrocarbon biochemicals that do not dissolve in water.

è Amino acids are biochemicals that make up different proteins with many functions.

è Nucleic acids are biochemicals that make up the DNA double helix and RNA.

Function

è Carbohydrates are used as a source of energy and for energy storage.

è Lipids many functions, including storing energy and making up cell membranes.

è Proteins regulate activities, transport and store materials, provide structural support.

è Nucleic acids store information and help to build proteins and other nucleic acids.