http://www.ck12.org Chapter 9. Chemistry of Carbon
- Carbohydrates are biochemical compounds that include sugars, starches, and cellulose. Their functions
include providing or storing energy and making up plant cell walls. - Proteins are biochemical compounds that consist of one or more chains of amino acids. Proteins have many
different functions. For example, some are enzymes, and some are hormones. - Lipids are biochemical compounds such as fats and oils. They consist of fatty acids, which may saturated or
unsaturated. Lipids are used to store energy. They also make up cell membranes. - Nucleic acids are biochemical compounds that include DNA and RNA. They consist of chains of smaller
molecules called nucleotides. DNA stores the genetic code for proteins. RNA helps make proteins.
Lesson Review Questions
Recall
- Name the four classes of biochemical compounds.
- What are sugars and starches? How are they used?
- Describe the structure of proteins. List three functions of proteins.
- Describe the structure of nucleic acids. What components are found in each nucleotide?
Apply Concepts
- A mystery biochemical compound contains only carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. It is made by both plants and
animals. In which class of biochemical compounds should it be placed?
Think Critically
- Use structural formulas to illustrate the difference between fatty acids in oils and fatty acids in fats.
- Explain the relationship between DNA and RNA.
Points to Consider
Biochemical compounds are involved in almost all life processes. One of the most important life processes is
photosynthesis.
- What is photosynthesis?
- Why is photosynthesis so important to living things?