Question

Proteins and nucleic acids both play vital roles in the structure and function of cells.

Part A: Describe the monomers that make up both macromolecules, in detail. (2 points)
Part B: Compare and contrast the functions of both proteins and nucleic acids in the cell. (2 points)

Answer 1

Part A: Proteins are made from amino acid monomers. There are 20 different types of amino acids which make up all the proteins of the body. The amino acids are made up of a carbon atom which is joined to an amino group, a carboxyl group and a variant group, known as R. Nucleic acids are made up of 5 carbon sugar, phosphate group and nitrogenous bases. Hence, nucleic acids are made up of nucleotides.

Part B: Protiens are important molecule which carry out various functions of the body. They are involved in regulation of various body process. Some proteins are involved in the transportation of various molecules. Other type of proteins are involved in various immune functions and hence protect the body. For example, antibodies are proteins which defend the body against pathogens.

Nucleic acids are involved in the storing and expressing of genetic information. They also direct the body for protein synthesis.