Biomolecules

Introduction to Biomolecules

Biomolecules are the chemicals found in living organisms and are essential for life. They form the molecular components of all organisms and are involved in structure, function, and regulation of the body's tissues and organs.

• Definition: Biomolecules are organic molecules produced by living organisms.

• Main Classes: The four major classes of biomolecules are carbohydrates, nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids.

• Importance: These molecules are fundamental to biological processes such as energy storage, genetic information transfer, catalysis of biochemical reactions, and cellular structure.

Building Blocks of Molecules

Matter and Elements

All living and non-living things are made up of matter. Matter is anything that occupies space and has mass. The basic unit of matter is the element.

• Element: A pure substance that cannot be broken down chemically into other substances.

• Atoms: Each element is made of atoms, which have constant and unique properties.

• Number of Elements: There are 118 known elements, but only about 92 occur naturally. Fewer than 30 elements are commonly found in living organisms.

• Stability: 26 elements are unstable and do not exist for long or are theoretical and have yet to be detected.

Atomic Structure

An atom is the smallest component of an element that retains the chemical properties of that element. Atoms are made up of subatomic particles:

• Proton: Positively charged particle located in the nucleus of an atom.

• Neutron: Electrically neutral particle also found in the nucleus.

• Electron: Negatively charged particle that travels in the electron cloud around the nucleus.

• Atomic Number: The number of protons determines the type of element.

• Isotopes: The number of neutrons determines the physical stability of the atom.

• Electron Configuration: The number and arrangement of electrons, especially in the outer shell, determine the chemical properties of the atom.

Summary Table: Subatomic Particles

Examples and Applications

• Example: The element carbon (C) has 6 protons, 6 neutrons (in its most common isotope), and 6 electrons. Its ability to form four covalent bonds makes it the backbone of organic molecules.

• Application: Understanding atomic structure is fundamental to studying how biomolecules interact and function in living systems.