After reading this chapter, completing the study guide, and participating in
class, you should be able to:
1. List the levels of biological organization from subatomic particles through
macromolecules
2. Describe the distinguishing characteristics of carbohydrates and explain
their classification
3. Describe the important biological functions of polysaccharides
4. Explain what distinguishes lipids from other classes of biological
macromolecules
5. Describe the unique properties, building blocks and biological roles of fats,
phospholipids and steroids
6. Distinguish proteins from the other classes of macromolecules and list the
biological functions which members of this class perform
7. List and be able to recognize the four major components of a typical amino
acid and explain how amino acids may be grouped according to the nature of
their side chain
8. Identify a peptide bond and describe how it is formed
9. Explain what determines protein conformation and why it is important
10. Name the four levels of protein structure and briefly describe from what
aspect of protein structure each is derived
11. Define denaturation and explain how proteins may be denatured
12. Describe the characteristics that distinguish nucleic acids from the other
classes of macromolecules
13. Summarize the functions of nucleic acids
14. Juggle three flaming batons...just checking that you're still paying
attention (smile)
15. List the major components of a nucleotide and describe how these
monomers are linked together to form a nucleic acid
16. Distinguish between a pyrimidine and a purine and name those which
occur in nucleic acids
17. Describe at least one function of nucleotides other than their inclusion in
nucleic acids
18. Briefly describe the three-dimensional structure of DNA