Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a primary function of lipids in the human body?
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1. Introduction to Biochemistry
Lipids
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Which of the following properties is characteristic of lipids?
A
They are generally insoluble in water but soluble in nonpolar solvents.
B
They are polymers composed of amino acids.
C
They readily form ionic bonds with water molecules.
D
They are primarily used as genetic material in cells.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the definition of lipids: Lipids are a diverse group of hydrophobic molecules that include fats, oils, phospholipids, and steroids. They are characterized by their insolubility in water and solubility in nonpolar solvents.
Analyze the first option: 'They are generally insoluble in water but soluble in nonpolar solvents.' This matches the chemical property of lipids, as their hydrophobic nature makes them insoluble in polar solvents like water but soluble in nonpolar solvents such as chloroform or benzene.
Evaluate the second option: 'They are polymers composed of amino acids.' This is incorrect because lipids are not polymers, and they are not composed of amino acids. Proteins, not lipids, are made up of amino acids.
Examine the third option: 'They readily form ionic bonds with water molecules.' This is incorrect because lipids are hydrophobic and do not form ionic bonds with water. Instead, they repel water due to their nonpolar nature.
Assess the fourth option: 'They are primarily used as genetic material in cells.' This is incorrect because genetic material is composed of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), not lipids. Lipids primarily serve as energy storage molecules, structural components of cell membranes, and signaling molecules.
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