What macromolecule is the primary source of energy for living cells?(1 point) Responses Lipids Lipids Proteins Proteins Nucleic acids Nucleic acids Carbohydrate
Carbohydrate
The macromolecule that is the primary source of energy for living cells is carbohydrates.
The macromolecule that is the primary source of energy for living cells is carbohydrates. To understand this concept, let's break it down.
Carbohydrates are organic compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. They can be found in various forms, such as sugars, starches, and fibers. When carbohydrates are broken down through a process called cellular respiration, the energy stored within them is released and can be used by cells for various metabolic activities.
To determine the primary source of energy for living cells, you can examine the main metabolic pathways involved in energy production. Carbohydrate metabolism, particularly through the breakdown of glucose, is the most efficient and preferred way for cells to generate energy.
One example of carbohydrate metabolism is glycolysis, where glucose molecules are broken down into smaller molecules, producing a small amount of energy. This process occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and does not require oxygen. The energy released during glycolysis is used by cells to carry out their functions.
Furthermore, after glycolysis, if oxygen is available, the products of glucose breakdown enter the citric acid cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle) and oxidative phosphorylation, which are part of cellular respiration. These processes occur in the mitochondria and involve a series of chemical reactions that generate a significant amount of energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
In summary, carbohydrates, specifically glucose, serve as the primary source of energy for living cells. Their breakdown through processes like glycolysis and cellular respiration releases energy that cells can use for their various functions.