Question

Which of the following demonstrates the following: a small change in form causes a large change in function?

A. Addition of functional groups gives the molecules its unique properties
B. Monomers are the building blocks of polymers
C. There are four types of biological macromolecules in living systems
D. Atoms form bonds to fill their outermost electron shell

Answer 1

A small change in form causes a large change in function in biological macromolecules when functional groups are added, which gives them unique properties and alters their function.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question addresses how small changes in form can lead to large changes in function, particularly in biological macromolecules. The addition of functional groups to the carbon backbone of macromolecules (such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids) is what gives these molecules their unique properties. A functional group can alter the chemical reactivity of the entire molecule, affecting how it interacts with other molecules and its role in biological processes. When monomers join together to form polymers through dehydration synthesis, the resulting polymer has different characteristics and functions compared to the individual monomers. A good example of this concept is the formation of proteins, where amino acids are the monomers that join to form polypeptide chains, significantly altering their function.