Using either carbohydrate, triglyceride or protein as an example, explain dehydration synthesis
and hydrolysis
Dehydration synthesis refers to a chemical reaction that links molecules together by removing water molecules from them. It involves the formation of a covalent bond between two molecules, resulting in the loss of a water molecule as a byproduct.
For example, in the formation of a carbohydrate molecule, dehydration synthesis occurs when two glucose molecules combine. One glucose molecule releases a hydroxyl group (−OH) while the other releases a hydrogen atom (H), resulting in the formation of a covalent bond between the two molecules and the creation of a new bond known as a glycosidic bond. The released hydroxyl group and hydrogen atom react to form a water molecule.
On the other hand, hydrolysis is the reverse process of dehydration synthesis. It breaks down molecules by adding a water molecule to split them into smaller components. Hydrolysis is commonly used to break down carbohydrates, triglycerides, and proteins into their building blocks.
For example, in the hydrolysis of a triglyceride molecule, it breaks down into glycerol and three fatty acid molecules. Water molecules are added, causing the ester bonds between the glycerol and the fatty acids to break. The hydroxyl group (-OH) from water attaches to the glycerol, while the hydrogen atom combines with the fatty acid, resulting in the formation of glycerol and fatty acid molecules, as well as a water molecule.
Overall, dehydration synthesis combines molecules by removing water, while hydrolysis breaks down larger molecules by adding water. Both processes are fundamental in the formation and breakdown of various macromolecules in living organisms.