Which of the following molecules is NOT a class of biomolecules?

The correct answer, indicating the molecule that is not a class of biomolecules, is minerals. Biomolecules are typically organic compounds essential for life, and they include proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and lipids. Each of these classes plays a crucial role in biological processes:

• Proteins are composed of amino acids and serve numerous functions including catalysis (as enzymes), structure, signaling, and transport.

• Carbohydrates are formed from sugar molecules and provide energy, structural support, and participate in cell recognition.

• Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are responsible for the storage and transfer of genetic information.

In contrast, minerals are inorganic elements that do not fall under the category of biomolecules. They serve important roles in the body, such as serving as cofactors for enzymes or contributing to bone structure, but they lack the organic structure and characteristics that define biomolecules. This distinction is critical in the study of biochemistry as it helps to categorize various molecules based on their chemical nature and function in biological systems.