Table of contents

1. Introduction to Biology2h 42m
2. Chemistry3h 37m
3. Water1h 26m
4. Biomolecules2h 23m
5. Cell Components2h 26m
6. The Membrane2h 31m
7. Energy and Metabolism2h 0m
8. Respiration2h 40m
9. Photosynthesis2h 49m
10. Cell Signaling59m
11. Cell Division2h 47m
12. Meiosis2h 0m
13. Mendelian Genetics4h 44m
14. DNA Synthesis2h 27m
15. Gene Expression3h 6m
16. Regulation of Expression3h 31m
17. Viruses37m
- Viruses
  37m
18. Biotechnology2h 58m
19. Genomics17m
- Genomes
  17m
20. Development1h 5m
21. Evolution3h 1m
22. Evolution of Populations3h 53m
23. Speciation1h 37m
24. History of Life on Earth2h 6m
25. Phylogeny2h 31m
26. Prokaryotes4h 59m
27. Protists1h 12m
28. Plants1h 22m
29. Fungi36m
- Fungi
  19m
- Fungi Reproduction
  17m
30. Overview of Animals34m
- Overview of Animals
  34m
31. Invertebrates1h 2m
32. Vertebrates50m
33. Plant Anatomy1h 3m
34. Vascular Plant Transport1h 2m
- Water Potential
  1h 2m
35. Soil37m
- Soil and Nutrients
  20m
- Nitrogen Fixation
  16m
36. Plant Reproduction47m
- Flowers
  33m
- Seeds
  14m
37. Plant Sensation and Response1h 9m
38. Animal Form and Function1h 19m
39. Digestive System1h 10m
- Digestion
  1h 3m
- Blood Sugar Homeostasis
  7m
40. Circulatory System1h 49m
41. Immune System1h 12m
42. Osmoregulation and Excretion50m
- Osmoregulation and Excretion
  50m
43. Endocrine System1h 4m
- Endocrine System
  1h 4m
44. Animal Reproduction1h 2m
- Animal Reproduction
  1h 2m
45. Nervous System1h 55m
- Neurons and Action Potentials
  1h 8m
- Central and Peripheral Nervous System
  46m
46. Sensory Systems46m
- Sensory System
  46m
47. Muscle Systems23m
- Musculoskeletal System
  23m
48. Ecology3h 11m
49. Animal Behavior28m
- Animal Behavior
  28m
50. Population Ecology3h 41m
51. Community Ecology2h 46m
52. Ecosystems2h 36m
53. Conservation Biology24m
- Conservation Biology
  24m

4. Biomolecules

Introduction to Biomolecules

General Biology

4. Biomolecules

Introduction to Biomolecules

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1:04 minutes

Problem 17

Textbook Question

Given that the function of egg yolk is to nourish and support the developing chick, explain why egg yolks are so high in fat, protein, and cholesterol.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of egg yolk in embryonic development: Egg yolk serves as the primary source of nutrients for the developing chick, providing energy and building blocks for growth and cellular processes.

Recognize the importance of fats: Fats are a dense source of energy, which is crucial for the chick's development as it undergoes rapid growth and metabolic activity. Additionally, fats contribute to the formation of cell membranes and signaling molecules.

Explain the role of proteins: Proteins are essential for the synthesis of tissues, enzymes, and other cellular structures. The developing chick requires a high amount of protein to build muscles, organs, and other body components.

Discuss the significance of cholesterol: Cholesterol is a vital component of cell membranes, ensuring their fluidity and functionality. It also serves as a precursor for steroid hormones, which play a role in regulating development and metabolism.

Connect the nutrient composition to the chick's needs: The high levels of fat, protein, and cholesterol in egg yolk are specifically tailored to meet the energy demands, structural requirements, and biochemical needs of the growing chick during its early stages of life.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Nutritional Composition of Egg Yolk

Egg yolks are rich in fats, proteins, and cholesterol, which are essential nutrients for the developing embryo. The high fat content provides a concentrated source of energy, while proteins are crucial for growth and development. Cholesterol plays a vital role in cell membrane formation and is a precursor for steroid hormones.

Role of Lipids in Development

Lipids, including fats found in egg yolk, are important for cellular structure and energy storage. They provide the necessary energy reserves that support the chick's growth during the incubation period. Additionally, lipids are involved in the formation of cell membranes, which are critical for the development of tissues and organs.

Protein Function in Embryonic Development

Proteins in egg yolk serve as building blocks for the developing chick, supplying amino acids necessary for the synthesis of new proteins. These proteins are involved in various biological processes, including enzyme function, immune response, and muscle development. The availability of high-quality protein in the yolk is crucial for the rapid growth of the embryo.