What are examples of large biological molecules formed by polymerization?

Large biological molecules formed by polymerization include proteins, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), and polysaccharides.

Proteins are large biological molecules that are formed by the polymerization of amino acids. This process involves the formation of peptide bonds between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of another. The sequence of amino acids in a protein determines its structure and function. Proteins play a crucial role in almost all biological processes, including enzyme catalysis, transport of molecules, and cell signalling.

Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are also formed by polymerization. They are composed of nucleotides, which consist of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The nucleotides are linked together by phosphodiester bonds to form a polynucleotide chain. DNA carries the genetic information for the development and functioning of living organisms, while RNA is involved in protein synthesis.

Polysaccharides, such as starch, cellulose, and glycogen, are another example of large biological molecules formed by polymerization. They are composed of monosaccharides, which are simple sugars, linked together by glycosidic bonds. Polysaccharides serve various functions in organisms, including energy storage (as in the case of starch and glycogen) and structural support (as in the case of cellulose in plant cell walls).

In summary, polymerization is a fundamental process in biology that leads to the formation of large, complex molecules. These molecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, and polysaccharides, are essential for the structure and function of living organisms. Understanding the process of polymerization and the properties of these biological polymers is crucial for students studying IB Chemistry.