ncert books class 12 chemistry chapter 10 · Section 1

A living system grows, sustains and reproduces itself. The most amazing thing about a living system is that it is composed of non-living atoms and molecules. The pursuit of knowledge of what goes on chemically within a living system falls in the domain of biochemistry . Living systems are made up of various complex biomolecules like carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, etc. Proteins and carbohydrates are essential constituents of our food. These biomolecules interact with each other and constitute the molecular logic of life processes. In addition, some simple molecules like vitamins and mineral salts also play an important role in the functions of organisms. Structures and functions of some of these biomolecules are discussed in this Unit. After studying this Unit, you will be able to • explain the characteristics of biomolecules like carbohydrates, proteins and nucleic acids and hormones; • classify carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids and vitamins on the basis of their structures; • explain the difference between DNA and RNA; • describe the role of biomolecules in biosystem.