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Multiple Choice
A shortage of phosphorus in the soil would make it especially difficult for a plant to manufacture __________.
A
proteins
B
cellulose
C
fatty acids
D
sucrose
E
DNA
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of phosphorus in biological molecules. Phosphorus is a key component of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA.
Recognize that phosphorus is part of the phosphate group in nucleotides. This group is essential for forming the backbone of DNA and RNA molecules.
Consider the structure of DNA. DNA consists of a sugar-phosphate backbone, where phosphorus is crucial for linking the sugar molecules together.
Evaluate the options given: proteins, cellulose, fatty acids, sucrose, and DNA. Identify which of these requires phosphorus for its synthesis.
Conclude that a shortage of phosphorus would most directly impact the synthesis of DNA, as it is integral to the formation of the phosphate backbone in nucleic acids.