* Chapter 5 The Structure and Function of Macromolecules * The Molecules of Life Overview: Another level in the hierarchy of biological organization is reached when small organic molecules are joined together Atom ---> molecule ---? compound * Macromolecules Are large molecules composed of smaller molecules Are complex in their structures Figure 5.1 * Macromolecules Most macromolecules are polymers, built from monomers Four classes of life?s organic molecules are polymers Carbohydrates Proteins Nucleic acids Lipids * A polymer Is a long molecule consisting of many similar building blocks called monomers Specific monomers make up each macromolecule E.g. amino acids are the monomers for proteins * The Synthesis and Breakdown of Polymers