What defines macromolecules?

Macromolecules are defined as large biological molecules that are typically made up of smaller subunits called monomers. This structure is fundamental because macromolecules include essential biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids (like DNA and RNA), carbohydrates, and lipids. Each of these macromolecules plays a critical role in biological functions and processes, where they can perform complex roles in the cell, from catalyzing biochemical reactions to serving as structural components.

Monomers, the individual building blocks, come together through various types of chemical bonds to form these larger, more complex structures through processes like dehydration reactions or polymerization. This characteristic of being composed of repeating units is what sets macromolecules apart from smaller molecules, which are not considered macromolecules regardless of their importance in biochemistry.

The other options presented do not accurately capture this definition. Small, simple organic molecules do not have the complexity or size of macromolecules. Inorganic compounds typically do not include the carbon-based structures that define macromolecules in biological systems. Simplified sugars, while they pertain to carbohydrates, are merely one category of macromolecules and do not encompass the broader range of large biological molecules. Thus, the defining feature of macromolecules is their size and