Which of the following best describes biomolecules?

• A. Organic molecules such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that are essential for life
• B. Gases present in the Earth's atmosphere
• C. Inorganic molecules found in rocks and minerals
• D. Synthetic compounds produced in laboratories

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the term 'biomolecules'. Biomolecules are organic molecules that are essential for life and are typically found in living organisms. They include carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the question. The first option mentions organic molecules essential for life, which aligns with the definition of biomolecules. The other options describe gases, inorganic molecules, and synthetic compounds, which do not fit the definition of biomolecules.
3. Step 3: Recall examples of biomolecules. Carbohydrates (e.g., glucose), proteins (e.g., enzymes), lipids (e.g., fats), and nucleic acids (e.g., DNA and RNA) are all organic molecules that play critical roles in biological processes.
4. Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options. Gases in the Earth's atmosphere, inorganic molecules in rocks and minerals, and synthetic compounds produced in laboratories are not biomolecules because they do not meet the criteria of being organic molecules essential for life.
5. Step 5: Confirm the correct answer. Based on the definition and examples, the correct description of biomolecules is 'Organic molecules such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that are essential for life.'