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Biological Macromolecule and Their Subunits Livings things are complex, however, at their roots the fundamental molecular components of life may seem surprisingly simple. Remember, biological molecules are made almost entirely of just 4 elements: Carbon Hydrogen Oxygen Nitrogen Molecules containing carbon are known as _____________________________ compounds. They were originally given this name because 19th century scientists believed that they could only be synthesized by living things using “vis vitalis” (meaning “life force”). We now manufacture organic molecules in many different forms, from medicines to plastics. Organic molecules behave predictably in accordance with all of the known laws of chemistry and physics. (Sorry, you may not be as “special” as was once thought) How can such complexity be achieved from so few building blocks? The short answer to this question can be found by understanding polymers. These are large molecules made from repeating subunits. Cells are composed almost entirely by just 4 different types of macromolecules which are in fact polymers. You will remember these from grade 11. Name the types macromolecules depicted below: A: B: (monomer) C: D: (monomer) THE BASICS OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY Since carbon can form 4 covalent bonds. This makes it a very versatile molecule, often bonding with other carbon molecules to form long chains. The simplest organic molecules are hydrocarbons which contain only carbon and hydrogen. Build models of the following hydrocarbons, then draw their structural diagram in the space provided the space provided: Methane CH4 Ethane C2H6 Hexane C6H14 Ethene C2H4 Ethyne C2H2 Cyclohexane C6H12 Since C—H bonds are non-polar, hydrocarbons are hydrophobic and therefore not often found in living things. By adding elements like oxygen and nitrogen to hydrocarbons they will gain polar regions and will often increase their solubility in water. Also, depending on the arrangement of elements added, the organic compound will gain a new 3D shape and new chemical properties allowing it be involved chemical reactions or to serve a particular function. The common stable arrangements of elements that can be added to hydrocarbons are called the FUNCTIONAL GROUPS. ** Complete the summary table of functional groups on the following page** Build models of the molecules shown below then identify the functional groups present and name the type of organic molecule: Acetic acid (vinegar) Isopropanol Methylamine OH CH H3C CH3 Functional group present: Functional group present: Functional group present: Type of molecule: Type of molecule: Type of molecule: THE FUNCTIONAL GROUPS Functional Group hydroxyl carbonyl carboxyl amino sulfhydryl phosphate Chemical Formula Name of Compound Example MOLECULAR ISOMERS: The macromolecules can be thought of as molecular machines. Their 3D shape is just as important as their chemical and physical properties in determining their biological functions. From this perspective, understanding the arrangement of atoms and the shape of a molecule is critically important. Define isomer Two main types of isomers: 1) Structural isomers _____________________________________________________ Eg. _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ 2) Stereoisomers - _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Two types of stereoisomers A) Geometrical isomers Changes the structure of the molecule giving it: B) Optical isomers - different ________________________ properties Molecules that are ______________ ______________ of each other (not superimposable). - often retains ______________________ properties Usually have similar chemical and physical properties. Enzymes or membrane proteins can distinguish them giving them different biological properties. (Usually one is biologically active the other is biologically inactive)