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Multiple Choice
The sex hormones estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone belong to which class of molecules?
A
Steroids
B
Glycolipids
C
Triglycerides
D
Phospholipids
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the structural and functional characteristics of the sex hormones mentioned in the problem: estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These hormones are derived from cholesterol and share a common steroid backbone.
Step 2: Recall the definition of steroids. Steroids are a class of lipids characterized by a core structure of four fused rings (three cyclohexane rings and one cyclopentane ring). This structure is known as the steroid nucleus.
Step 3: Compare the structural features of the sex hormones to the other options provided: glycolipids, triglycerides, and phospholipids. Glycolipids contain carbohydrate groups, triglycerides are composed of glycerol and three fatty acids, and phospholipids consist of glycerol, fatty acids, and a phosphate group. None of these match the steroid structure.
Step 4: Recognize that the sex hormones are synthesized from cholesterol, which is itself a steroid. This confirms that estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone belong to the steroid class of molecules.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Steroids' based on the structural and biosynthetic evidence provided in the previous steps.