Unit 14: Macromolecules

What are Macromolecules?

Macromolecules are large, complex molecules with high molecular weights, formed by the polymerization of smaller subunits. This unit explores the structure, properties, and functions of macromolecules, including their classification into natural and synthetic polymers. Students will learn about the various types of macromolecules, their chemical behavior, and their significance in biological and industrial contexts.

Key Topics in Macromolecules:

• Types of Macromolecules:
  • Polymers: Understanding the basic concept of polymers and their classification into addition polymers and condensation polymers.
  • Biomacromolecules: Examining the main types of biological macromolecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids, and their roles in living organisms.
  • Synthetic Macromolecules: Studying synthetic polymers like plastics, rubbers, and fibers, including their synthesis and industrial applications.
• Structure and Properties:
  • Polymer Structure: Exploring the structure of macromolecules, including linear, branched, and cross-linked polymers.
  • Physical Properties: Understanding the physical properties of macromolecules such as tensile strength, elasticity, and solubility.
  • Chemical Properties: Analyzing the chemical reactivity of different types of macromolecules and their stability under various conditions.
• Synthesis and Applications:
  • Polymerization Methods: Learning about different methods of polymerization, including addition (chain-growth) and condensation (step-growth) polymerization.
  • Industrial Applications: Exploring the uses of macromolecules in various industries, such as plastics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals.
  • Biological Functions: Examining the functions of biomacromolecules in biological systems, including their roles in cellular processes and as biological catalysts (enzymes).

Benefits of Studying Macromolecules:

• Comprehensive Understanding: Provides an in-depth understanding of the structure, properties, and functions of macromolecules, which are essential for advanced studies in chemistry and biology.
• Industrial and Biological Relevance: Highlights the importance of macromolecules in both industrial applications and biological systems, from materials science to medicine.
• Preparation for Advanced Topics: Equips students with foundational knowledge necessary for exploring more complex topics in polymer chemistry and biochemistry.

This unit is crucial for understanding the diverse world of macromolecules, offering valuable knowledge that supports further studies and practical applications in both chemistry and biology.

1. In which of these processes are small organic molecules made into macromolecules

a. the cracking of petroleum fractions
b. fractional distillation of crude oil
c. polymerization of ethene
d. hydrolysis of proteins

2. Which of following is an addition polymer

a. Nylon-6,6
b. Polystyrene
c. Terylene
d. Epoxy resin

3. Which of following is a synthetic polymer

a. animal fat
b. starch
c. cellulose
d. polyester

4. Plastic are pollution problem because many plastics

a. are made from petroleum
b. are very inflammable
c. burn to produce toxic fumes
d. decompose to produce toxic products

5. The fiber which is made from acrylonitrile as monomer

a. PVC
b. rayon fibre
c. acrylic fibre
d. polyester fibre

6. A polymeric substance that is formed in liquid state and then hardened to a rigid solid is called

a. fibre
b. plastic
c. varnish
d. polyamide resin

7. Vegetable oils are

a. unsaturated fatty acids
b. glycerides of unsaturated fatty acids
c. glycerides of saturated fatty acids
d. essentials oils obtained from plants

8. Which of following element is not present in all proteins

a. C
b. H
c. N
d. S

9. Which of following nitrogenous bases is not present in RNA

a. cytosine
b. adenine
c. thiamine
d. uracil

10. Which one of the following enzymes brings about the hydrolysis of fats

a. urease
b. maltase
c. zymase
d.lipase

11. The reaction between fat and NaOH is called

a. esterification
b. hydrogenolysis
c. fermentation
d.saponification

12. Which one of the following statements about glucose and sucrose is incorrect?

a. both are soluble in water
b. both are naturally occurring
c. both are carbohydrates
d. both are disaccharides