Biomacromolecules – Class 12 | Chapter – 9 | Biology Short Notes Series PDF
Biomacromolecules: Any carbon-containing molecule, i.e., organic compounds present in a living cell, is called a biomolecule. Based on the molecular weight, biomolecules are classified into two, namely micromolecules and macromolecules.
Micromolecules are those biomolecules which have a molecular weight of less than 10,000 Dalton (Da). This includes the primary metabolites and secondary metabolites. Micromolecules are acid soluble, and their molecular weights range from 18 to 800 Da.
Macromolecules are biomolecules which are characterized by their acid insoluble property. Proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids are the macromolecules found in living organisms; they are also called biomacromolecules. They have a molecular weight of more than ten thousand daltons. However, lipids are an exception. Though lipids have a molecular weight of less than 800 Da, they are classified as biomacromolecules because of their acid insoluble property. Hence, lipids are not strictly macromolecules.
Biomacromolecules
| Macromolecule | Basic Formula, key features | Monomer | Examples | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Proteins | CHON
−NH2 + −COOH +R group
|
Amino acids | Enzymes, some hormones | Storage; Signals; Structural; Contractile; Defensive; Enzyme; Transport; Receptors |
| Lipids | C:H:O
Greater than 2:1 H:O (carboxyl group) |
Fatty acid and glycerol | Butter, oil, cholesterol, beeswax | Energy storage; Protection; Chemical messengers; Repel water |
| Carbohydrates | C:H:O
1:2:1 |
Monosaccharides | Glucose, Fructose, Starch, Glycogen, Cellulose | Energy storage; Structure |
| Nucleic Acids | CHONP
pentose, nitrogenous base, phosphate |
Nucleotides | DNA, RNA | Genetic information |
| JOIN OUR TELEGRAM CHANNELS | ||
| Biology Quiz & Notes | Physics Quiz & Notes | Chemistry Quiz & Notes |
By Team Learning Mantras
