Problem 101 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Which of the following are biopolymers? (a) Leather (b) Nucleic acids (c) Orlon (d) Bakelite

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Leather and nucleic acids are biopolymers.

Step 1: Define Biopolymers

Biopolymers are polymers that are produced by living organisms. They consist of monomeric units that are covalently bonded to form larger structures. Common biopolymers include proteins, nucleic acids, and polysaccharides.

Step 2: Analyze Each Option

Examine each option to determine if it is a biopolymer: (a) Leather - Leather is made from animal hides and primarily consists of collagen, a protein, making it a biopolymer product. (b) Nucleic acids - These are biopolymers composed of nucleotide monomers and include DNA and RNA. (c) Orlon - This is a synthetic polymer made from acrylonitrile and is not produced by living organisms, hence not a biopolymer. (d) Bakelite - A synthetic plastic made from phenol and formaldehyde, so it is not a biopolymer.

Step 3: Identify Biopolymers

Based on the analysis, the biopolymers from the given options are leather and nucleic acids.

Key Concepts

Proteins

Proteins are essential biopolymers that play numerous critical roles in living organisms. They are made up of smaller units called amino acids, which are linked together in long chains by peptide bonds. These chains can fold into complex three-dimensional shapes, which ultimately determine the protein's function.

Proteins are involved in various biological functions:

• Structural support: Proteins like collagen provide strength and support to tissues.
• Catalysis: Enzymes, which are proteins, accelerate chemical reactions in the body.
• Transport: Hemoglobin transports oxygen in the blood.
• Defense: Antibodies protect the body from pathogens.

Without proteins, life as we know it would not be possible. Their diverse functions are vital for cellular processes and overall organism health. Understanding proteins helps us appreciate the complexity of biological systems.

Nucleic acids

Nucleic acids are fundamental biopolymers that store and transmit genetic information in living organisms. The two types of nucleic acids are DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid). They are composed of nucleotide monomers, each consisting of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

• DNA: This molecule carries the genetic blueprint for living organisms. It is structured as a double helix and contains sequences that encode for proteins.
• RNA: RNA helps in translating the genetic code from DNA into proteins. It comes in several forms, including messenger RNA (mRNA), ribosomal RNA (rRNA), and transfer RNA (tRNA).

Nucleic acids are crucial in the process of inheritance and protein synthesis. They enable organisms to pass on traits from one generation to the next, ensuring continuity of life.

Polysaccharides

Polysaccharides are a type of carbohydrate biopolymer consisting of long chains of sugar units. These sugars, or monosaccharides, are linked together by glycosidic bonds. Unlike simple sugars or disaccharides, polysaccharides can provide more complex structural and storage functions.

• Storage polysaccharides: Starch and glycogen store energy in plants and animals, respectively.
• Structural polysaccharides: Cellulose in plants and chitin in the exoskeletons of arthropods offer structural support.

Polysaccharides serve as essential sources of energy and as important components in animal and plant structural frameworks. Their versatility and abundance make them vital to both the structure and function of living organisms.