Which of the following is an example of a biological macromolecule?
A.
Nucleic acid, Protein
B.
Monosaccharide
C.
Amino acid
D.
Protein
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is A. Nucleic acid, Protein.
Explanation:
Biological macromolecules are large, complex molecules essential for life. These include carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids. Let’s explore why A. Nucleic acid, Protein is the correct answer and why the other options are incorrect.
1. Nucleic Acids and Proteins (Answer A)
- Nucleic acids (e.g., DNA and RNA) are macromolecules composed of long chains of nucleotides, which store and transmit genetic information. DNA carries the instructions for building proteins, while RNA plays a role in protein synthesis.
- Proteins are large macromolecules made of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. They perform a wide range of functions in the body, such as catalyzing biochemical reactions (enzymes), providing structural support, and regulating cellular processes.
Both nucleic acids and proteins are macromolecules because they consist of thousands of smaller subunits (nucleotides and amino acids, respectively) linked together to form large, functional molecules.
2. Monosaccharide (Option B)
A monosaccharide is a simple sugar, like glucose or fructose, and is the building block of carbohydrates. While carbohydrates can be macromolecules (like polysaccharides such as starch or glycogen), a monosaccharide itself is a small molecule, not a macromolecule.
3. Amino Acid (Option C)
An amino acid is a building block of proteins but is not a macromolecule by itself. When amino acids link together in long chains, they form proteins, which are macromolecules.
4. Protein (Option D)
While protein is a macromolecule, this option is incomplete because it doesn’t mention nucleic acids, which are also macromolecules. Thus, A is the more complete and accurate answer.
In summary, nucleic acids and proteins are examples of biological macromolecules, making A the correct answer.