The macromolecules that can accomplish the widest range of biological functions are ______.

• A. carbohydrates
• B. proteins
• C. nucleic acids
• D. lipids

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the role of macromolecules in biological systems. Macromolecules are large molecules essential for life, and they include carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids.
2. Step 2: Review the functions of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates primarily serve as energy sources and structural components, but their range of biological functions is relatively limited compared to other macromolecules.
3. Step 3: Examine the functions of lipids. Lipids are important for energy storage, membrane structure, and signaling, but they do not perform as wide a variety of functions as proteins.
4. Step 4: Consider nucleic acids. Nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) are crucial for storing and transmitting genetic information, but their functions are specialized and not as diverse as proteins.
5. Step 5: Analyze proteins. Proteins are the most versatile macromolecules, capable of catalyzing biochemical reactions (enzymes), providing structural support, transporting molecules, signaling, and more. This wide range of functions makes proteins the correct answer.