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Synopsis From the smallest microbe to the largest mammal, all life depends on the properties and reactions of four classes of organic compounds – carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Carbohydrates provide energy for metabolism. Proteins catalyse the reactions that allow an organism to live and grow Lipids build cell membrances that regulate the internal structure and function of cells. Nucleic acids supply the blueprint for the synthesis of proteins and the function of life itself. Biochemistry is the study of the structure, properties, and reactions of these compounds. This book is designed for his life science students and chemistry and other physical science major. Few assumptions have been made about the chemistry and biology backgrounds the students have. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between molecular architecture and the functional properties of biomolecules, and the dynamic, unceasing, and self-regulating nature of living processes. Students are also provided with overviews of the major physical and chemical techniques that biochemists have used to explore life at the molecular level.