Chapter 6, Problem 38A

Summary Introduction

To fill:

The correct term in the given blank.

Introduction:

Carbon forms the component of all living organisms. Life on earth is thus said to be carbon-based. The compounds that contain carbon are known as organic compounds. Carbon can form four covalent bonds with other atoms. These covalent bonds allow carbon to bonds to each other, giving rise to a variety of important carbon compounds. The carbon compounds can exist as straight chain, branched, or ring structure. Carbon compounds lead to diversity of life on earth.

Answer to Problem 38A

Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids are macromolecules.

Explanation of Solution

Carbon atoms join to form carbon molecules. Similarly, most cells have small carbon compounds that act as the building blocks for large molecules. Large molecules formed by joining smaller organic molecules are known as macromolecules or polymers. Polymers are formed by repeating units of identical or nearly identical compounds called monomers joined by a series of covalent bonds. The biological macromolecules are divided into four major classes − carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and nucleic acids.