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A process by which cells build large molecules from monomers is

A. hydrolysis.
B. reproduction.
C. dehydration synthesis.
D. hydrolysis and dehydration synthesis.
E. unrelated to chemical bonds.

1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

Cells construct large molecules from monomers through a process called dehydration synthesis, which releases water as a byproduct. Dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis are essentially reverse reactions related to polymer formation and breakdown.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process by which cells build large molecules from monomers is known as dehydration synthesis. During this process, monomers undergo a chemical reaction where they bind together end to end and form a polymer. A water molecule is released as a byproduct of this reaction, which involves the combination of a hydrogen atom from one monomer with a hydroxyl group from another monomer, leading to the formation of a covalent bond between the monomers and the release of water. In contrast, hydrolysis is the reverse reaction where polymers break down into monomers, with the addition of a water molecule to break the covalent bond.

In summary, to form polymers, monomers release water molecules in a reaction referred to as dehydration synthesis or condensation. When polymers need to be broken down into monomers, a molecule of water is used, and this reaction is termed hydrolysis.

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