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Multiple Choice
The nurse recognizes that the most common monosaccharides contain how many carbon atoms?
A
5
B
6
C
3
D
4
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the term 'monosaccharides': Monosaccharides are the simplest form of carbohydrates and are often referred to as single sugar molecules. They serve as building blocks for more complex carbohydrates.
Recall the classification of monosaccharides based on the number of carbon atoms: Monosaccharides are categorized as trioses (3 carbons), tetroses (4 carbons), pentoses (5 carbons), and hexoses (6 carbons).
Identify the most common monosaccharides: The most common monosaccharides in biological systems are glucose, fructose, and galactose, all of which are hexoses (contain 6 carbon atoms).
Relate the importance of hexoses: Hexoses play a critical role in energy metabolism and are central to processes like glycolysis and cellular respiration.
Conclude that the most common monosaccharides contain 6 carbon atoms, based on their prevalence and biological significance.