Macromolecules

Science

Definition

Macromolecules are large, complex molecules essential to life, built from smaller subunits called monomers. The four major types in biology are carbohydrates (made of monosaccharides), lipids (fatty acids and glycerol), proteins (amino acids), and nucleic acids (nucleotides).

Examples

  • Starch and cellulose as carbohydrate polymers in plants
  • Hemoglobin as a protein that carries oxygen in blood
  • DNA and RNA as nucleic acids storing genetic information

Related Terms

Biochemistry Enzyme structure Dna structure Cell organelles

Study This Concept

Practice macromolecules with free review games in these units:

AP Biology Unit 1: Chemistry of Life