Which of the following cannot be used as a fuel source for cellular respiration?

• A. Nucleic acids
• B. Glucose
• C. Proteins
• D. Fatty acids

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of cellular respiration: Cellular respiration is a metabolic pathway that converts biochemical energy from nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and then releases waste products. The main substrates used in cellular respiration are carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
2. Identify the common fuel sources: The primary fuel sources for cellular respiration are glucose (a carbohydrate), fatty acids (from fats), and amino acids (from proteins). These molecules are broken down to produce ATP.
3. Consider the role of nucleic acids: Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are not typically used as fuel sources for cellular respiration. They are primarily involved in the storage and transmission of genetic information.
4. Analyze the options: Glucose, proteins, and fatty acids are all known to be metabolized in cellular respiration to produce energy. Nucleic acids, however, are not used in this process.
5. Conclude which cannot be used: Based on the understanding that nucleic acids are not metabolized for energy production in cellular respiration, they cannot be used as a fuel source in this process.