Bioelementos y biomoléculas

Understanding the Composition of Living Beings

Bioelements in Living Matter

• The discussion begins with the formation of living beings, emphasizing bioelements and biomolecules. Bioelements are chemical elements that constitute living matter, categorized into three main groups.

• Primary bioelements make up approximately 99% of living matter, primarily including carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur. These elements can also be found in inert matter but in smaller proportions.

• Secondary bioelements account for around 3% of living matter and include calcium, potassium, sodium, and magnesium. They are present in lesser amounts compared to primary bioelements.

• Oligoelements are found in living beings at less than 0.1%. Despite their minor presence, they are essential for vital functions; examples include iron (crucial for hemoglobin) and iodine (important for thyroid function).

Biomolecules: Organic vs Inorganic

• Biomolecules consist of molecules that form part of living beings. Some are exclusive to life forms (organic biomolecules), characterized by a high carbon content due to carbon's ability to bond with other atoms.

• Organic biomolecules include:

• Glucids: Provide immediate energy; examples include glucose and starch found in foods like bread and pasta.

• Lipids: Store long-term energy; examples include fats and cholesterol which also play roles in cellular membranes and organ protection.

• Proteins: Form structures such as hair and muscles; notable examples include hemoglobin (oxygen transport), collagen (skin elasticity), and keratin (found in nails).

• Nucleic Acids: Contain genetic information crucial for cell function; includes DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid).

Inorganic Biomolecules