1. Carbohydrates: These are made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are the primary source of energy for living organisms and also provide structural support.
* Examples: Sugars (glucose, fructose), starches (amylose, amylopectin), cellulose (found in plant cell walls)
2. Lipids: These are a diverse group of molecules that are generally nonpolar and insoluble in water. They are important for energy storage, insulation, and cell membrane structure.
* Examples: Fats (triglycerides), oils, phospholipids (found in cell membranes), steroids (cholesterol, hormones)
3. Proteins: These are large, complex molecules made up of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. They are essential for a wide range of biological functions, including:
* Examples: Enzymes (catalyze chemical reactions), antibodies (fight infections), hormones (regulate bodily functions), structural proteins (collagen, keratin)
4. Nucleic acids: These are complex molecules that store and transmit genetic information. They are made up of nucleotides, which consist of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
* Examples: Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), ribonucleic acid (RNA)
