Key terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Biological macromolecule | A large, organic molecule such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. |
| Monomer | A molecule that is a building block for larger molecules (polymers). For example, an amino acid acts as the building blocks for proteins. |
Similarly, are carbohydrates proteins and lipids considered major nutrients?
Macronutrients. Nutrients that are needed in large amounts are called macronutrients. There are three major classes of macronutrients: carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins.
Hereof, are protein macronutrients or micronutrients?
Macronutrients are the nutrients your body needs in larger amounts, namely carbohydrates, protein, and fat. These provide your body with energy, or calories. Micronutrients are the nutrients your body needs in smaller amounts, which are commonly referred to as vitamins and minerals.
How do you identify carbohydrates lipids and proteins?
Is amino acid a carbohydrate lipid or protein?
Comparing the Biological Macromolecules
| Macromolecule | Basic Formula, key features | Monomer |
|---|---|---|
| Proteins | CHON −NH2 + −COOH +R group | Amino acids |
| Lipids | C:H:O Greater than 2:1 H:O (carboxyl group) | Fatty acid and glycerol |
| Carbohydrates | C:H:O 1:2:1 | Monosaccharides |
| Nucleic Acids | CHONP pentose, nitrogenous base, phosphate | Nucleotides |
What are carbohydrates proteins and fats called?
The “big 3” macronutrients (macros) are fats, carbohydrates and protein. When eaten in the right ratios, these three macronutrients can improve your weight, health and overall physical well-being.
What are considered micronutrients?
The term micronutrients refers to vitamins and minerals, which can be divided into macrominerals, trace minerals and water- and fat-soluble vitamins.
What are lipids as nutrients?
The lipids of nutritional importance are triglycerides (fats and oils), phospholipids (e.g., lecithin), and sterols (e.g., cholesterol). Lipids in the diet transport the four fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K) and assist in their absorption in the small intestine.
What are lipids made of?
Lipids are an essential component of the cell membrane. The structure is typically made of a glycerol backbone, 2 fatty acid tails (hydrophobic), and a phosphate group (hydrophilic). As such, phospholipids are amphipathic.
What is protein carbohydrates and fats?
These nutrients are digested into simpler compounds. Carbohydrates are used for energy (glucose). Fats are used for energy after they are broken into fatty acids. Protein can also be used for energy, but the first job is to help with making hormones, muscle, and other proteins.
Why is carbohydrate called carbohydrate?
They are called carbohydrates because, at the chemical level, they contain carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. There are three macronutrients: carbohydrates, protein and fats, Smathers said.