Biology 12

MINI LAB

Reviewing Macromolecules

You have studied carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and

nucleic acids in previous science courses. Use the

molecules shown in Figure 1.14 as a starting point for

designing a reference resource on the structure and

function of these four main types of macromolecules. Your

reference resource can incorporate one or several media,

and should include the following information, as well as any

additional details you deem appropriate:

types of polymers formed from the monomer subunits

shown in Figure 1.

principal functions of these polymers in living systems

sources in nature from which cells and other living

systems may obtain these essential compounds

Analyze

1.Cells metabolize macromolecules in a fluid environment.

Why is water necessary for metabolic processes?

Would these processes be possible in a non-fluid

environment? Defend your answer.

20 MHR • Unit 1 Metabolic Processes

SECTION REVIEW

1. Biologists usually consider inorganic compounds
   as part of the non-living world and organic
   compounds as part of the living world.
   (a)What property of water makes it an inorganic
   compound?
   (b)Why is water, nevertheless, an essential
   component of all living systems?


2. In this section you read, “The diversity of life relies
   greatly upon the versatility of carbon.” Explain your
   understanding of the significance of this statement.
   Use examples to support and enhance your
   explanation.


3. Explain why glucose, fructose, and galactose
   are isomers.


4. Describe the differences between a
   stereoisomer and a structural isomer. Give
   an example of each.
   5. What is a functional group? State two
   characteristics of a functional group that make
   it important to biological systems.
   6. Name three macromolecules and sketch the
   monomer subunit for each.
   7. Like carbon, atoms of the element silicon
   can form bonds with as many as four other atoms.
   Ammonia is a more polar substance than water. In
   your opinion, why is life on Earth based on carbon
   chains in water, instead of silicon chains in ammonia?
   8. Examine the carbon “skeletons” shown below.
   How many additional atoms can bond with the
   highlighted carbon atom in each case?

C CCC

C

C

C CC C CC

A B C D

I

MC

C

K/U

K/U

K/U

C

C