Multiple Choice
Which of the following actions helps in the digestion of carbohydrates?
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7. Energy and Metabolism
Introduction to Metabolism
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Which of the following macromolecules would provide the body with the most energy per gram when metabolized?
A
Proteins
B
Carbohydrates
C
Nucleic acids
D
Lipids
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of macromolecules and their role in energy storage and metabolism. Macromolecules include proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and lipids, each with distinct functions and energy yields.
Recall that energy yield is measured in calories per gram. Lipids are known to provide approximately 9 kcal/g, while carbohydrates and proteins provide about 4 kcal/g. Nucleic acids are not typically metabolized for energy in significant amounts.
Examine why lipids provide the most energy per gram. Lipids have a higher proportion of carbon-hydrogen bonds compared to carbohydrates and proteins, which makes them more energy-dense when broken down during cellular respiration.
Consider the metabolic process: Lipids undergo beta-oxidation, a pathway that generates acetyl-CoA, which enters the citric acid cycle to produce ATP. This process is highly efficient in terms of energy production.
Conclude that lipids are the macromolecule that provides the most energy per gram when metabolized, due to their high caloric content and efficient energy storage in the form of triglycerides.
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