Chapter 1, Problem 1RQ

Summary Introduction

To review:

Definition of the following biological terminologies:

a. Biomolecule

b. Macromolecule

c. Enzyme

d. Metabolism

e. Homeostasis

Introduction:

A living organism is able to sustain and regulate its biological functions due to variety and diversity of biomolecules present in living organisms. Most biomolecules present in cell are proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and nucleic acids, these biomolecules govern life by functioning together in a coordinated manner in a living organism. In biological system, these biomolecules further form complex structures giving rise to structural and functional components of cell, tissues, and organs. 

Explanation of Solution

Following are the definitions for the biological terminologies:

a. Biomolecule:

These are the molecules found in the living organisms and are vital for the functioning, growth, development, and regulation of the living system. These contain macromolecules like proteins, carbohydrates, fats (lipids) and nucleic acids. Biomolecules consist of inorganic and organic components: inorganic component consist of water, ions like (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), and calcium (Ca²⁺), and organic component consist carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur.

b. Macromolecule:

These are large molecules as they are comprised of thousands of atoms which makes them a complete molecule. For example, in a biological system proteins and nucleic acids are macromolecules.

c. Enzyme:

Enzyme is defined as a biological catalyst (protein molecules) enhances the rate of a chemical reaction but enzymes are not permanently changed by the reaction. Enzymes do this by decreasing activation energy required for a chemical reaction and couple with substrate forms enzyme substrate complex and finally convert them into products.

d. Metabolism:

In order to regulate and maintain life, there are various reactions which undergo within a living system. This involves the synthesis of new compounds and breakdown of other molecules. All these reactions occur within the body and are referred to as a metabolic reaction and phenomenon is called metabolism.

e. Homeostasis:

A physiological process in which equilibrium condition is maintained or constant internal environment is maintained within a living organism.

Conclusion

Biomolecules, macromolecules, enzymes are the biological molecules while metabolism and homeostasis are the biological processes essential to maintain the integrity and efficiency of biological system.