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Multiple Choice
What is the primary use of nitrogen in living things?
A
To provide energy through cellular respiration
B
To build amino acids and proteins
C
To form the backbone of DNA and RNA
D
To regulate osmotic balance in cells
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of nitrogen in biological systems: Nitrogen is a key element in the structure of biomolecules such as amino acids, proteins, DNA, and RNA. It is not directly used for energy production or osmotic regulation.
Recognize that amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and nitrogen is a critical component of amino acids. Proteins are essential for various cellular functions, including enzymatic activity, structural support, and signaling.
Learn that nitrogen is also a fundamental part of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. These molecules are crucial for genetic information storage and transfer.
Eliminate incorrect options: Nitrogen is not used to provide energy through cellular respiration, as energy is primarily derived from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also does not directly regulate osmotic balance in cells.
Conclude that the primary use of nitrogen in living things is to build amino acids and proteins, as well as to form the backbone of DNA and RNA, which are essential for life processes.