Polymers that contain sugars…
(a) may store hereditary information.
(b) may store energy.
(c) may protect cells.
D. Both (b) and (c).
E. (a), (b), and (c). Submit Request Answer
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is (e) (a), (b), and (c).
Polymers that contain sugars, also known as polysaccharides, play multiple critical roles in biological systems. They may store hereditary information, store energy, and protect cells, fulfilling the functions listed in options (a), (b), and (c).
(a) May store hereditary information: While polysaccharides themselves do not directly store hereditary information (a role primarily attributed to nucleic acids like DNA and RNA), certain glycoproteins and glycolipids have roles in cell recognition and communication, which are crucial for transmitting cellular information. Additionally, complex carbohydrates can be involved in signaling pathways that influence gene expression indirectly.
(b) May store energy: Polysaccharides like starch and glycogen are critical for energy storage in organisms. Starch is the primary energy storage molecule in plants, while glycogen serves as the main energy reserve in animals, particularly in the liver and muscles. When the body requires energy, these polymers are broken down into glucose, a simple sugar that can be used in cellular respiration to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell.
(c) May protect cells: Polysaccharides can also play a protective role. For example, cellulose is a polysaccharide that forms the structural framework of plant cell walls, providing rigidity and protection against mechanical stress. In bacteria, a polysaccharide-rich capsule can shield the cell from host immune responses and environmental threats. Additionally, chitin, a polysaccharide found in the exoskeletons of insects and crustaceans, provides structural support and protection.
Conclusion:
Polymers that contain sugars are versatile biomolecules with diverse roles in biological systems. They not only serve as energy reserves but also contribute to the structural integrity of cells and are involved in cellular communication and protection. This explains why the correct answer is (e), as they can perform all of the listed functions.