Multiple Choice
Two monosaccharides joined by dehydration synthesis form a carbohydrate molecule called a:
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1. Introduction to Biochemistry
Carbohydrates
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Which of the following nutrients yields the most energy per gram when metabolized?
A
Lipids (fats)
B
Carbohydrates
C
Proteins
D
Nucleic acids
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of energy yield: When nutrients are metabolized, they release energy in the form of ATP. The energy yield per gram depends on the chemical structure and the number of bonds that can be oxidized during metabolism.
Review the energy yield of macronutrients: Lipids (fats), carbohydrates, and proteins are the primary macronutrients that provide energy. Nucleic acids are not typically metabolized for energy in significant amounts.
Compare the energy yield per gram: Lipids (fats) yield approximately 9 kcal per gram, carbohydrates yield about 4 kcal per gram, and proteins also yield around 4 kcal per gram. This is due to the higher number of carbon-hydrogen bonds in lipids, which release more energy during oxidation.
Understand why nucleic acids are not a significant energy source: Nucleic acids are primarily used for genetic information storage and transfer, not for energy production. Their metabolism does not contribute significantly to ATP generation.
Conclude that lipids yield the most energy per gram: Based on the comparison, lipids (fats) provide the highest energy yield per gram when metabolized, making them the correct answer to the question.
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