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Multiple Choice
Which of the following classes of macromolecules typically contain nitrogen (N) as a key component?
A
Carbohydrates
B
Polysaccharides
C
Proteins
D
Lipids
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the composition of macromolecules: Carbohydrates and polysaccharides are primarily composed of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O). Lipids also consist mainly of C, H, and O, but proteins are unique because they contain nitrogen (N) as a key component.
Recall the structure of proteins: Proteins are made up of amino acids, which have an amino group (-NH₂) containing nitrogen. This distinguishes proteins from other macromolecules.
Recognize the role of nitrogen in proteins: Nitrogen is essential for forming peptide bonds between amino acids, which link them together to form polypeptides and ultimately functional proteins.
Eliminate incorrect options: Carbohydrates, polysaccharides, and lipids do not typically contain nitrogen as a key component, so they can be ruled out.
Conclude that proteins are the correct answer: Proteins are the class of macromolecules that typically contain nitrogen as a key component due to the presence of amino groups in their structure.