Assignment on Biomolecules
Class 11 - Biology
Index
1. Introduction to Biomolecules
2. Carbohydrates
3. Proteins
4. Enzymes
5. Nucleic Acids
6. Lipids
7. Vitamins & Hormones
8. Metabolic Functions of Biomolecules
9. Applications of Biomolecules in Daily Life
10. Conclusion
Introduction to Biomolecules
Biomolecules are organic molecules present in all living organisms. They are broadly classified into
carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. These molecules are essential for various cellular
processes such as energy storage, transfer of genetic information, catalysis of biochemical
reactions, and maintenance of cellular structure. Importance: Without biomolecules, life would not
be possible. They form the structural and functional basis of living organisms.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are polyhydroxy aldehydes or ketones. They act as the primary source of energy
and are found in foods like rice, bread, fruits, and milk. Classification: 1. Monosaccharides –
Glucose, Fructose, Galactose
2. Disaccharides – Sucrose, Lactose, Maltose
3. Polysaccharides – Starch, Glycogen, Cellulose Functions: Provide energy, form structural
components, act as storage molecules.
Diagram: Structure of Glucose
Proteins
Proteins are polymers of amino acids. They are required for growth, repair, and maintenance of
body tissues. Levels of Protein Structure:
1. Primary – Sequence of amino acids
2. Secondary – α-helix and β-sheet structures
3. Tertiary – 3D folding due to side-chain interactions
4. Quaternary – Multiple polypeptide chains together Functions: Enzymatic, structural, transport,
defense (antibodies), hormonal (insulin).
Diagram: Levels of Protein Structure
Enzymes
Enzymes are biological catalysts. They reduce the activation energy of biochemical reactions,
making them faster. Properties: Specific, efficient, reusable.
Factors affecting enzyme activity: Temperature, pH, substrate concentration, inhibitors.
Example: Amylase, Lipase, DNA Polymerase.
Nucleic Acids
Nucleic acids store and transmit genetic information. DNA: Double helix, discovered by Watson &
Crick.
RNA: Single-stranded, helps in protein synthesis.
Central Dogma: DNA → RNA → Protein.
Diagram: DNA Double Helix
Lipids
Lipids are hydrophobic molecules such as fats, oils, and steroids. Types:
1. Simple lipids – Fats, Oils
2. Compound lipids – Phospholipids
3. Derived lipids – Steroids (Cholesterol, Hormones) Functions: Energy storage, membrane
structure, insulation, signaling.
Diagram: Structure of Phospholipid
Vitamins & Hormones
Vitamins:
- Fat-soluble – A, D, E, K
- Water-soluble – B-complex, C
Deficiency causes diseases like rickets, scurvy, night blindness. Hormones:
- Protein hormones: Insulin
- Steroid hormones: Estrogen, Testosterone
- Regulate growth, metabolism, reproduction.
Metabolic Functions of Biomolecules
Carbohydrates supply energy, proteins build tissues, lipids store energy, and nucleic acids regulate
heredity. Enzymes catalyze metabolic reactions essential for survival.
Applications of Biomolecules in Daily Life
- Enzymes in detergents, food processing
- DNA fingerprinting in forensics
- Vitamins in supplements
- Insulin in medicine
- Lipids in cosmetics and skincare
Conclusion
Biomolecules form the foundation of life. Their study not only explains biological functions but also
finds applications in medicine, biotechnology, and industry.