Which of the following correctly identifies the two main types of carbohydrates?

• A. Proteins and nucleic acids
• B. Starch and cellulose
• C. Monosaccharides and lipids
• D. Simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding what carbohydrates are. Carbohydrates are organic molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, and they serve as a primary energy source for living organisms.
2. Step 2: Learn about the classification of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are broadly categorized into two main types based on their structure and complexity: simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates.
3. Step 3: Define simple carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates, also known as sugars, include monosaccharides (e.g., glucose, fructose) and disaccharides (e.g., sucrose, lactose). These are small molecules that are quickly absorbed and provide immediate energy.
4. Step 4: Define complex carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates consist of polysaccharides, such as starch and cellulose, which are larger molecules made up of long chains of monosaccharides. These provide sustained energy and are often found in foods like grains, vegetables, and legumes.
5. Step 5: Compare the incorrect options to the correct answer. Proteins and nucleic acids are not carbohydrates; starch and cellulose are examples of complex carbohydrates but do not represent the two main types; monosaccharides are simple carbohydrates, but lipids are a separate macromolecule group. The correct answer is simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates.