Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 93%

Which of the following is a major function of protein?

Rationale

Builds and repairs body tissue.

Proteins play a crucial role in the growth, maintenance, and repair of body tissues, making this function one of their primary biological purposes. They are essential for cellular structure and function, aiding in the recovery and regeneration of tissues throughout the body.

A (Builds and repairs body tissue) CORRECT

This choice accurately reflects the primary function of proteins, as they are vital for the synthesis of new tissues and the repair of damaged ones. Proteins serve as the building blocks for muscles, organs, and other bodily structures, highlighting their importance in overall health and recovery processes.

B (Lubricates the joints and mucous membranes) YOUR ANSWER

While some proteins, such as certain glycoproteins, can have lubricating properties, this is not a major function of proteins as a whole. The primary substances responsible for lubrication in joints and mucous membranes are typically lipids or mucins, rather than proteins. Thus, this choice does not encapsulate a fundamental role of proteins.

C (Prevents disease caused by nutritional deficiencies) YOUR ANSWER

Although adequate protein intake is important for overall health and can help prevent deficiencies that lead to diseases, this is more of a secondary effect rather than a primary function of proteins. The primary role of proteins is not disease prevention but rather their structural and functional contributions to body tissues.

D (Supplies fatty acids to insulate the body) YOUR ANSWER

Proteins do not supply fatty acids; this is a function of lipids. While proteins are involved in various metabolic processes, they do not serve as a source of fatty acids for insulation. This choice misrepresents the specific role of proteins in biological systems.

Conclusion

Proteins are vital macromolecules with the primary function of building and repairing body tissues, which is essential for growth and healing. While they may contribute to other processes, such as maintaining health and supporting metabolism, their core identity lies in their structural role. The other choices either mischaracterize protein functions or attribute roles better suited to other macromolecules, such as lipids.

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