Question

One macromolecule isolated from an organism has a formula of C22H24O2 and another has a formula of C22H24O22. Based on the formulas alone, speculate and justify the likely identity of each macromolecule.

Answer 1

Both molecules are long chain based polymers of carbohydrates. This can easily be told based on the fact that the 3 main elements that make up a sugar are present C , H and O.

This would be C11H12O11 in terms of simple empirical formula.

Answer 2

`C_(22) H_(24) O_(2)`= Lipid

`C_(22) H_(24) O_(22)` = Carbohydrate

Step-by-step explanation:

The given compounds have molecular formulas:

Compound 1:
`C_(22) H_(24) O_(2)`

Compound 2:
`C_(22) H_(24) O_(22)`

Both compounds are composed of carbon (C), hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O) with the same C:H ratios but different O content

In compound 2, the C:H:O ratio is 1:2:1 i.e. the C and O are present in equivalent amounts. This is characteristic of carbohydrates.

In compound 1, the C:H:O ratio is 1:2:(<1). The 'O' content is less than 'C' which is characteristic of lipids.