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B1.1.2—Macromolecules by condensation

Condensation reactions join smaller molecules by covalent bonds while releasing water, forming biological macromolecules such as polysaccharides, peptides and triglycerides.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
B1.1.2
Level
HL

Exam analysis

Chance of appearing3%of analysed past papers
Latest appearanceMay 2025
Most common paperPaper2
Typical marks1

Common command terms

  • Outline
  • State
  • Identify

Scoring notes

Common mistake
Reversing condensation and hydrolysis in reaction equations.

Recent exam appearances

May 2025Paper2 ["HL"] · TZ12(a)[ 1 ]B1.1.2—Macromolecules by condensation
November 2024Paper2 ["HL"] · TZ04(b)[ 1 ]B1.1.2—Macromolecules by condensation
November 2020Paper1 ["HL"] · TZ05[ 1 ]B1.1.2—Macromolecules by condensation
Practice this objective

Coverage 2020–2025 · Updated 15 Jul 2026

Concept essentials

  • Condensation reactions build larger molecules from smaller subunits.
  • Water is released when the covalent bond forms.
  • Amino acids form peptide bonds by condensation.
  • Fatty acids and glycerol form ester bonds by condensation.
ConceptIB Biology HL