Multiple Choice
Your body is primarily composed of which element?
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4. Biomolecules
Carbon
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Which of the following best describes the primary role of carbon in biological systems?
A
It acts as the main energy currency in cells.
B
It forms the backbone of organic molecules due to its ability to make four covalent bonds.
C
It is the primary component of cell membranes.
D
It serves as a universal solvent for biochemical reactions.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of carbon in biological systems: Carbon is a fundamental element in biology because it is the backbone of organic molecules, which are essential for life.
Recognize the unique chemical properties of carbon: Carbon atoms can form four covalent bonds due to having four valence electrons. This allows carbon to create complex and diverse molecular structures, such as chains, rings, and branches.
Connect carbon's bonding ability to organic molecules: Organic molecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, are all built around carbon skeletons. These molecules are crucial for cellular structure and function.
Eliminate incorrect options: Carbon does not act as the main energy currency in cells (this role is fulfilled by ATP), nor is it the primary component of cell membranes (lipids play this role). Additionally, water, not carbon, serves as the universal solvent for biochemical reactions.
Conclude that the correct answer is: Carbon forms the backbone of organic molecules due to its ability to make four covalent bonds, which is essential for the complexity and diversity of life.
