ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Biopolymers & Cell

Hello there! Do you know what a cell is? Well, a cell is the basic unit of life that makes up all living things, including plants and animals. A biopolymer, on the other hand, is a large molecule made up of repeating units called monomers. These molecules occur naturally in living organisms and can be used for a lot of things, like creating materials and medical devices.

One example of a biopolymer found in cells is called DNA, which is short for deoxyribonucleic acid. DNA is what makes up our genes and determines things like our eye color or how tall we might be. Another example is protein, which is made up of smaller units called amino acids. Protein is important for building and repairing structures in our bodies, as well as carrying out chemical reactions.

In addition to DNA and protein, there are other biopolymers found in cells, including carbohydrates and lipids. Carbohydrates are made up of sugars and are important for things like providing energy to the body. Lipids, on the other hand, are fats that can be used for storing energy or building cell membranes.

So, in summary, biopolymers are large molecules made up of repeating units found naturally in living organisms like plants and animals. They have important roles in things like creating materials and even our own bodies. Cells, which are the basic units of life, contain various biopolymers such as DNA, protein, carbohydrates, and lipids.