Macromolecules are many smaller molecules bonded together to make polymer. Carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids are a few examples of macromolecules found in living organisms. They tend to be large and complex (as far as molecules go). The smaller molecules used to build a macromolecule, or polymer, are called monomers.
The monomers used to build proteins are amino acids. They are connected by peptide bonds. Proteins have many functions, some of which include structure, organization, enzymes (catalyst reactions), and transport.
The monomers used to build carbohydrates are called monosaccharides. They are connected by glycosidic bonds. Carbohydrates store energy, carbon, and give structure to plants and animals.
The monomers used to build nucleic acids are called nucleotides. They are connected by phosphodiester bonds. Nucleic acids include DNA and RNA.
The monomers used to build fats and lipids are called glycerol and fatty acids. They are connected by ester bonds. Fats and lipids function to store energy and provide structure for plants and animals. Triglycerides and phospholipids are important fats to know about for biology.
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