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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the major functions of fatty acids and triglycerides in the human body?
A
They are the main source of structural support in plant cell walls.
B
They act as primary components of nucleic acids and facilitate genetic information transfer.
C
They function mainly as enzymes that catalyze metabolic reactions.
D
They serve as a major energy storage form and provide insulation and protection for organs.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of fatty acids and triglycerides in the human body. Fatty acids are the building blocks of triglycerides, which are a type of lipid. Lipids are essential macromolecules with diverse functions.
Recall that triglycerides are stored in adipose tissue and serve as a major energy reserve. When energy is needed, triglycerides are broken down into glycerol and fatty acids, which can be metabolized to produce ATP.
Recognize that fatty acids and triglycerides also provide insulation and protection for organs. Adipose tissue helps maintain body temperature and cushions vital organs against physical impact.
Eliminate the incorrect options by analyzing their descriptions. For example, fatty acids and triglycerides are not involved in forming plant cell walls (this is the role of cellulose), nor are they components of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA are composed of nucleotides). They also do not function as enzymes, which are proteins that catalyze reactions.
Conclude that the correct description of fatty acids and triglycerides is their role as a major energy storage form and their function in providing insulation and protection for organs.