- The building blocks of life are biological molecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
- Carbohydrates are made of monosaccharides (like glucose), which form disaccharides or polysaccharides through dehydration synthesis.
- Lipids include triglycerides (glycerol + 3 fatty acids) and phospholipids (glycerol + 2 fatty acids + phosphate group); they are nonpolar and hydrophobic.
- Proteins are made of amino acids linked by peptide bonds; the sequence determines the protein’s structure and function.
- Nucleic acids (DNA/RNA) are polymers of nucleotides, each containing a sugar, phosphate group, and nitrogenous base; they store and transmit genetic information.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of biological molecules worksheet.