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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the primary functions of nitrogen and phosphorus in the human body?
A
Nitrogen is mainly used for energy storage, and phosphorus is important for oxygen transport.
B
Both nitrogen and phosphorus are primarily involved in hormone synthesis.
C
Nitrogen is a major component of cell membranes, and phosphorus is required for muscle contraction.
D
Nitrogen is essential for building amino acids and proteins, while phosphorus is a key component of nucleic acids and ATP.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by identifying the biological roles of nitrogen and phosphorus in the human body. Nitrogen is a fundamental element in amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Proteins are essential for various structural and functional roles in cells.
Step 2: Understand the role of phosphorus. Phosphorus is a critical component of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), which store and transmit genetic information. It is also a key element in ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the molecule responsible for energy transfer in cells.
Step 3: Compare the incorrect options provided in the question. For example, nitrogen is not primarily used for energy storage, nor is phosphorus directly involved in oxygen transport. Similarly, neither element is primarily involved in hormone synthesis or muscle contraction.
Step 4: Focus on the correct answer. Nitrogen is essential for building amino acids and proteins, which are vital for cellular structure and function. Phosphorus is crucial for nucleic acids and ATP, which are involved in genetic information and energy metabolism.
Step 5: Conclude by emphasizing the importance of understanding the specific roles of elements in biological systems, as this knowledge helps clarify their functions and avoids misconceptions presented in the incorrect options.