Which of the following is a carbohydrate?

• A. Triglyceride
• B. Glucose
• C. Adenine
• D. Hemoglobin

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of a carbohydrate. 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 for living organisms and include sugars, starches, and cellulose.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options provided. Identify which of the given molecules fits the definition of a carbohydrate based on its structure and function.
3. Step 3: Examine 'Triglyceride.' Triglycerides are lipids (fats) composed of glycerol and three fatty acid chains. They are not carbohydrates because they do not follow the typical 1:2:1 ratio of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
4. Step 4: Examine 'Adenine.' Adenine is a nitrogenous base found in nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. It is not a carbohydrate because it contains nitrogen and does not fit the carbohydrate structure or function.
5. Step 5: Examine 'Glucose.' Glucose is a monosaccharide (simple sugar) with the molecular formula \( C_6H_{12}O_6 \), which follows the 1:2:1 ratio of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. It is a carbohydrate and serves as a primary energy source for cells.