INTRODUCTION
Macromolecules are large, complex molecules formed by the polymerization of smaller subunits (monomers).
They have high molecular weights and complex 3D structures.
1. INTRODUCTION TO MACROMOLECULES
1.2. Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are biomolecules, found abundantly in living organisms.
They contain more than one hydroxyl group (-OH) In addition to aldehyde (COH) or ketone group (C=O). Thus, they form in to polyhydroxy aldoses or polyhydroxy ketoses.
Carbohydrates can be classified inTo
Monosaccharide : Mono is the smallest sugar unit. For example glucose
Disaccharide: is made up of two monosaccharides joined by glycosidic linkages. for example Sucrose
Polysaccharides: example is cellulose
Composition: carbohydrate molecule contain Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (1:2:1 ratio).
Functions:
• Energy source (e.g., glucose in respiration).
• Structural components (e.g., cellulose).
• Energy storage (e.g., glycogen, starch).