Which elements found in nucleic acids are also commonly found in lipids?

• A. Phosphorus and nitrogen
• B. Carbon and hydrogen
• C. Sulfur and phosphorus
• D. Nitrogen and oxygen

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by identifying the primary elements that make up nucleic acids. Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are composed of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P). These elements are essential for the structure of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of nucleic acids.
2. Step 2: Next, consider the composition of lipids. Lipids, such as fats, oils, and phospholipids, are primarily composed of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O). Some specialized lipids, like phospholipids, also contain phosphorus (P). However, nitrogen (N) is not commonly found in lipids.
3. Step 3: Compare the elements found in nucleic acids and lipids. Both nucleic acids and lipids share carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) as common elements. Phosphorus (P) is present in nucleic acids and some lipids (e.g., phospholipids), but nitrogen (N) is not typically found in lipids.
4. Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options based on the comparison. 'Phosphorus and nitrogen' is incorrect because nitrogen is not commonly found in lipids. 'Sulfur and phosphorus' is incorrect because sulfur is not a major component of nucleic acids or lipids. 'Nitrogen and oxygen' is incorrect because nitrogen is not commonly found in lipids.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Carbon and hydrogen,' as these elements are commonly found in both nucleic acids and lipids.