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

Answer:

$C_{22} H_{24} O_{2}$= Lipid

$C_{22} H_{24} O_{22}$ = Carbohydrate

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.

Answer 2

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.