Chapter+5

Chapter 5: Structure and Function of Large Biological Molecules

Some things to think about when studying Chapter 5. . .   Try to think about the big picture. Instead of memorizing that the side chains of amino acids are nonpolar if they have mostly C and H’s, you should know that whenever you see a lot of C and H’s, you have a nonpolar molecule or group. Therefore the methyl group is nonpolar, lipids are nonpolar, etc. In your mind, nonpolar should relate to being hydrophobic and not dissolving in water. For example, when you see the terms fatty acids and amino acids, you should recognize that they are both acids. Because they are both acids, they must have a carboxyl group. A carboxyl group will donate H+ ion to the solution, which increases the concentration of H+ ions in solution, making the solution more acidic. All of these ideas are related! It is easier to study bigger picture ideas then to sit down and memorize everything.