Question

Why are organic molecules important to living things?

Answer 1

Organic molecules are important to living things because life is based on the properties of carbon.

Properties of Carbon

$\dot{}$ Carbon is an important element because it can form four covalent bonds.

$\dot{}$ Carbon skeletons can vary in length, branching, and ring structure.

$\dot{}$ The carbon skeletons contain the functional groups that are involved in biochemical reactions.

Four types of organic molecules are important for life.

Carbohydrates

$\dot{}$ Are made of sugar molecules.

$\dot{}$ Provide energy and structure.

Lipids

Lipids are a large class of hydrophobic organic molecules.

$\dot{}$ Fats are made of glycerol plus fatty acids; they serve as a backup source of energy.

$\dot{}$ Phospholipids contain polar and nonpolar groups; they form cellular membranes.

$\dot{}$ Steroids have a characteristic ring structure; they include cholesterol and various hormones.

Nucleic acids

$\dot{}$ Consist of long chains of nucleotides.

$\dot{}$ Are the molecules of the genetic code.

$\dot{}$ Are also important as energy carriers.

Proteins

$\dot{}$ Consist of long chains of amino acids.

$\dot{}$ Are necessary for growth and repair of tissues.

$\dot{}$ Are crucial to life and perform a wide range of functions.