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Multiple Choice
Lactase and carbonic anhydrase are examples of what type of substance?
A
Hormones
B
Lipids
C
Carbohydrates
D
Enzymes
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the role of lactase and carbonic anhydrase in biological systems. Lactase is responsible for breaking down lactose into glucose and galactose, while carbonic anhydrase catalyzes the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into bicarbonate and protons.
Step 2: Recall the definition of enzymes. Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. They are typically proteins, although some RNA molecules can act as enzymes (ribozymes).
Step 3: Compare the functions of lactase and carbonic anhydrase to the definition of enzymes. Both substances facilitate specific biochemical reactions, which aligns with the characteristics of enzymes.
Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options. Hormones are signaling molecules, lipids are a class of biomolecules including fats, and carbohydrates are energy-providing molecules. None of these categories describe the catalytic function of lactase and carbonic anhydrase.
Step 5: Conclude that lactase and carbonic anhydrase are examples of enzymes based on their catalytic roles in biochemical reactions.