Biological Molecules: The Building Blocks of Life
Your body runs on three main types of biological molecules, and each one has a specific job to do. Think of them as different tools in a toolbox - each perfectly designed for their role.
Carbohydrates are your body's favourite fuel source. They're made from carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms arranged in different ways. The simplest ones are called monosaccharides (like glucose), which are sweet and dissolve easily in water. When two of these join together, you get disaccharides like sucrose (table sugar). Chain loads of them together and you get polysaccharides like starch - these aren't sweet and don't dissolve easily.
Proteins are the workhorses of your cells. Made from carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen, they're built from 20 different amino acids that can be arranged in countless ways. Proteins handle growth, repair, and act as enzymes, hormones, and structural support - basically, they keep everything running smoothly.
Quick Tip: Remember that glucose + oxygen = carbon dioxide + water + ENERGY - this is how your cells get power!
Lipids (fats) are your long-term energy storage and insulation. They're made from carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, but arranged differently than carbs. Each lipid has one glycerol molecule attached to three fatty acids - think of it like a three-pronged fork.