1. Carbohydrates: These are made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They provide energy for cells, and some are structural components of organisms. Examples include sugars, starches, and cellulose.
2. Lipids (fats and oils): These are made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, but with a higher ratio of hydrogen to oxygen than carbohydrates. They store energy, insulate organisms, and form cell membranes. Examples include fats, oils, waxes, and steroids.
3. Proteins: These are made up of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen, and sometimes sulfur. They have diverse functions, including acting as enzymes, transporting substances, providing structural support, and fighting disease. Examples include enzymes, antibodies, and hormones.
4. Nucleic acids: These are made up of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus. They store and transmit genetic information. Examples include DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid).
