Organic Molecules Lab Report

Cells contain mostly water as it takes up 70% of the total mass, as well as organic molecules and inorganic ions. The relationship of water and hydrogen atoms allow the formation of hydrogen bonds and allow interactions with positively and negatively charged ions. This allows the molecules to be dissolvable in water or hydrophilic. Hydrophobic properties are seen in nonpolar molecules and cannot be dissolved. Inorganic ions such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, making up less than 1% of the cell mass, contribute to various cell functions. This experiment focuses on organic molecules such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins. Amino acids and simple sugars are joined to form the macromolecules of proteins and carbohydrates through

They can also regulate cell metabolism and provide cell structure. When acting as an enzyme, the can speed up the rate of a chemical reaction. Proteins consist of 20 different common amino acids and each has an acidic group and an amino group and are distinguishable by their R group which is formed by a carbon atom which can change its properties. A chain of amino acids are joined by peptide bonds to form a peptide and even a polypeptide. The amino acid sequence and three-dimensional form aid to their functions. Different shapes of these chains allow them to interact with each other in various ways. Carbohydrates contain simple sugars such as glucose and maltose. The breakdown of these sugars provide a source of energy. When the glucose is broken down to water and carbon dioxide, energy is released. Monosaccharides are joined together and the sugars link to form large amounts of sugars called polysaccharides. Besides providing energy, polysaccharides play a role in cell signaling and the interactions of cells and

This experiment allowed the testing for carbohydrates, lipids and proteins in high concentration and low concentration substances. The test for proteins was determined using Biuret Reagent which is a blue colored solution of sodium and potassium hydroxide and a small amount of dilute copper sulfate solution. When mixed with a substance, it will either turn purple or pinkish/ purple based on whether protein or peptides are present respectively. The reagent changes color when combined with a protein or peptide because peptide bonds are formed by combining with the copper ions in the reagent. In the test, the first tube of water acted as a control because the reaction is known before the test so if it is negative, the test is valid. Control samples are included in procedure to confirm the experiment. Therefore, the first tube stayed the color clear and no protein is present. The second tube of albumin turned a purple color showing a protein is present. The third tube of pepsin turned a purplish/pink showing a protein is present. This happens because pepsin is an enzyme and they are composed of proteins. The fourth tube of starch showed no protein as it turned cloudy white because starch is not a protein rather a