Download Organic Compounds In Biochemistry

Organic Compounds: Lab Activity
This lab activity covers questions relating organic compounds to the subject of Biochemistry. In
completing this activity feel free to use your textbook and any other resources you can find. You should
answer the questions in complete sentences with proper grammar and punctuation. You should also
include a citation for any references used. Information provided without proper citation will receive no
credit for this assignment. Please note the suggested length of response for each question.
1. Describe the functions of proteins in the body (minimum 100 words).
2. Proteins are made up of amino acids. An example of an amino acid is shown below. What
functional groups make up this particular amino acid (no word minimum)?
3. Of the 20 amino acids, 9 are considered to be essential amino acids. What does it mean that
these amino acids are “essential” and what impact does that have on humans (minimum 100
words).
4. Describe the function of carbohydrates in the body (minimum 100 words).
5. Carbohydrates are made up of monosaccharides. Identify the functional groups present in the
monosaccharide shown below (no word minimum).
6. Monosaccharides (and disaccharides) give food its “sweet” taste. Alternatively, artificial
sweeteners can be used to sweeten foods or beverages. Identify a currently available artificial
sweetener and 1) provide its chemical and common name, 2)provide a brief description of its
discovery, and 3) discuss whether or not there is a scientific concern over its safety. (Minimum
150 words).
7. Describe the functions of lipids in the body (100 word minimum).
8. The lipid shown below is oleic acid, which is found in olives, pecans, and grapeseed. Identify the
functional groups found in oleic acid (no word minimum).
9. Another important molecule in biochemistry is DNA (deoxyribose nucleic acid). What is the role
of DNA in the body (minimum 200 words)?
10. A molecule closely related to DNA is RNA (ribose nucleic acid). What is the role of RNA in the
body? (minimum 200 words)?