Which of the following is NOT an example of a carbohydrate?

• A. Sucrose
• B. Cholesterol
• C. Glucose
• D. Cellulose

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are organic molecules composed of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) atoms, typically in a ratio of 1:2:1. They serve as a primary energy source and structural components in living organisms.
2. Step 2: Review the examples provided in the question. Sucrose, glucose, and cellulose are all carbohydrates. Sucrose is a disaccharide, glucose is a monosaccharide, and cellulose is a polysaccharide. Cholesterol, however, is a lipid, not a carbohydrate.
3. Step 3: Recall the structural differences between carbohydrates and lipids. Lipids, such as cholesterol, are hydrophobic molecules primarily composed of long hydrocarbon chains or rings, whereas carbohydrates have hydroxyl (-OH) groups and follow the general formula (CH₂O)n.
4. Step 4: Analyze the question to identify the molecule that does not fit the carbohydrate category. Cholesterol is a sterol lipid and does not share the structural or functional characteristics of carbohydrates.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is cholesterol, as it is not a carbohydrate, while sucrose, glucose, and cellulose are all examples of carbohydrates.