Summary
Large polymers formed by condensation reactions and broken down by hydrolysis, including carbohydrates, proteins and nucleic acids.
In depth
Four classes dominate: carbohydrates, lipids (not true polymers), proteins and nucleic acids. Polymers are built from monomers by condensation reactions that need energy and enzymes. Cells continually build and recycle them.
Different polymers use few monomers in an enormous number of arrangements, which is the source of molecular diversity.
Key idea: structure determines function from the monomer up to the whole polymer.
Frequently asked questions
What is Macromolecules?
Large polymers formed by condensation reactions and broken down by hydrolysis, including carbohydrates, proteins and nucleic acids.
Which area of biology covers Macromolecules, and how advanced is it?
Macromolecules is one of the 51 topics in Biomolecules & Biochemistry. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Proteins, Condensation and Hydrolysis, Triglycerides.
What should I learn before Macromolecules?
Macromolecules is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Biomolecules & Biochemistry that pair well with it include Water Properties, Carbon Chemistry, Carbohydrates.
What topics are related to Macromolecules?
The closest topics to Macromolecules are Proteins, Condensation and Hydrolysis, Triglycerides, Primary Structure. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Macromolecules?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Macromolecules. To practise the whole of Biomolecules & Biochemistry, use the Biomolecules & Biochemistry quiz.
How is Macromolecules different from Proteins?
Macromolecules: Large polymers formed by condensation reactions and broken down by hydrolysis, including carbohydrates, proteins and nucleic acids. Proteins: Polymers of amino acids that act as enzymes, structural parts, transporters, hormones and antibodies. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Macromolecules step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Proteins and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Biomolecules & Biochemistry quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.