Macromolecule Biosynthesis

NGSS HS-LS1-6: Construct and revise an explanation based on evidence for how carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen from sugar molecules may combine with other elements to form amino acids and/or other large carbon-based molecules.

1. Source: Glucose (Sugar)

C6H12O6

Glucose is produced via photosynthesis. It serves as the primary hydrocarbon backbone for building other molecules.

Carbon Backbone:
C
C
C
C
C
C

2. Available Atomic Inventory

These atoms are now available to synthesize new molecules.

C
Carbon
0
H
Hydrogen
0
O
Oxygen
0
Soil/Air
N
Nitrogen
0

3. Synthesize Macromolecule

Required Atoms:

4. Synthesized Products

No molecules synthesized yet.

Scientific Evidence (HS-LS1-6)

Notice how the Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen required to build Amino Acids and Lipids originate entirely from the Sugar (Glucose) molecule. The plant must absorb Nitrogen from its environment (soil) to form Amino Acids, the building blocks of proteins.