Honors Biology Unit 2 - 2.4 Carbohydrates and Lipids

In Unit 2 of our Biochemistry series, we explore the fascinating world of carbohydrates and lipids. Let's dive into the realm of these essential macromolecules.

Carbohydrates, often referred to as sugars, play a crucial role as the primary source of energy for all living things. Discover the monomer, monosaccharide, and the polymer, polysaccharide, that make up carbohydrates. Explore how plants store glucose in polysaccharides called starch, and animals store it in glycogen. Learn about structural carbohydrates like cellulose and chitin, used in building plant cell walls and arthropod shells.

Next, we delve into lipids, which include fats, oils, waxes, and steroids. Lipids are known for being hydrophobic due to their extreme non-polar nature. Explore the monomer, fatty acid, and the polymer, triglyceride, that make up lipids. Understand how lipids serve as energy storage in animals, particularly in adipose tissue (fat). Learn about the different types of lipids, such as saturated fats, unsaturated fats, and hydrogenated fats, each with unique characteristics.

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