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Multiple Choice
Which basic ring structure is common to all steroids?
A
Imidazole ring
B
Benzene ring
C
Pyrimidine ring
D
Cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene ring
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the question: The problem asks about the basic ring structure common to all steroids. Steroids are a class of organic compounds with a specific molecular framework.
Recall the structural features of steroids: Steroids are characterized by a core structure consisting of three six-membered cyclohexane rings and one five-membered cyclopentane ring fused together. This structure is known as cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene.
Eliminate incorrect options: Analyze the given options. Imidazole, benzene, and pyrimidine rings are not part of the steroid core structure. These rings are associated with other types of molecules, such as amino acids or nucleotides.
Focus on the correct answer: Cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene is the correct answer because it describes the fused ring system that forms the backbone of all steroid molecules.
Conclude with relevance: This ring structure is fundamental to the biological activity of steroids, as it provides the framework for functional groups that determine the specific properties of steroid hormones and other related compounds.