1.2.A—Describe the composition of macromolecules required by living organisms

Describe the composition of macromolecules required by living organisms.

• Atoms and molecules from the environment are necessary to build new molecules. Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen are the most prevalent elements used to build biological molecules such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Additionally:
  • i. Sulfur is used in the building of proteins.
  • ii. Phosphorus is used in the building of phospholipids (a type of lipid) and nucleic acids.
  • iii. Nitrogen is used in the building of nucleic acids.