Question

Scientists have discovered a new molecule found in the blood of wallabies. The molecule contains only carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. After further examination, scientists discovered that the C, H, and O are in a 1:2:1 ratio. This molecule is most likely a ________.?

Answer 1

Answer:

carbohydrate

Explanation:

The molecule discovered by scientists in the illustration is most likely to be a carbohydrate.

Among all the biomolecules, only carbohydrates have the molecular formula of ($CH_2O$)$_n$. On the other hand, carbohydrates generally contain carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) in the ratio 1:2:1.

Since the molecule discovered by the scientists has C, H, and O in the ratio 1:2:1, then, it is, therefore, best thought of as a carbohydrate.