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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
SL

Exam analysis

Chance of appearing9%of analysed past papers
Latest appearanceMay 2025
Most common paperPaper1
Typical marks1–5

Common command terms

  • Outline
  • State
  • Identify

Scoring notes

Common mistake
Reversing condensation and hydrolysis in reaction equations.

Recent exam appearances

May 2025Paper2 ["SL"] · TZ32(a)[ 1 ]B1.1.2—Macromolecules by condensation
November 2024Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ26[ 1 ]B1.1.2—Macromolecules by condensation
May 2024Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ28[ 1 ]B1.1.2—Macromolecules by condensation
May 2024Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ16[ 1 ]B1.1.2—Macromolecules by condensation
November 2022Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ07[ 1 ]B1.1.2—Macromolecules by condensation
Practice this objective

Coverage 2011–2025 · 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 SL