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Monomers: The Basis of Life.
Member rating: No Rating | Words: | Submitted: Mon Jun 19 2006
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Monomers: The Basis of Life Simple organic molecules present in living material include monosaccharides, amino acids, fatty acids, glycerol and aromatic bases, such molecules are termed monomers. These monomers act as building blocks for the synthesis of larger macromolecules, called polymers, by condensation reactions. In this essay I shall discuss the above monomers, the polymers they make up and the functions/role of these polymers. Firstly I will consider monosaccharides. Glucose, fructose and galactose are all monosaccharides termed "simple sugars". Each has the chemical formula C6H12O6, but the arrangement of atoms and chemical groups in them is different. Monosaccharides are classified according to the number of carbon atoms they possess. Monosaccharides that have 3 carbons are termed trioses. E.g. glyceraldehyde and dihydroxyacetone, (used in respiration). Monosaccharides with 5 carbon atoms are called pentoses. E.g. ribose, (involved in the synthesis of nucleic acid, coenzymes and ATP. 6 carbon monosaccharides are termed...
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