What are macromolecules primarily made up of?

Macromolecules are primarily composed of smaller units known as monomers, which are linked together through covalent bonds to form long chains or larger structures. These monomers can vary depending on the type of macromolecule. For example, nucleotides serve as the monomers for nucleic acids like DNA and RNA, while amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and simple sugars make up carbohydrates.

Monomers play a crucial role as the foundational components that combine to create the complex structures and functions associated with macromolecules. Each type of macromolecule exhibits unique properties and functions in biological systems, determined by the specific arrangements and types of monomers involved. This understanding of the relationship between monomers and macromolecules is fundamental in biology, illustrating how simple building blocks contribute to the complexity of life.