What are the four major macromolecules found in living organisms?

The four major macromolecules found in living organisms—carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids—serve essential functions that are crucial for life.

Carbohydrates are primary sources of energy and play roles in cell structure and communication. They include sugars and starches and are integral to biological processes. Proteins, composed of amino acids, are involved in nearly every cellular function, acting as enzymes, structural components, and signaling molecules. Lipids, which include fats and oils, are important for energy storage, forming cell membranes, and serving as signaling molecules. Lastly, nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are vital for storing and transmitting genetic information, guiding the synthesis of proteins.

The other choices do not encompass the complete set of major macromolecules. For example, the second choice incorrectly includes vitamins and minerals, which are micronutrients—not macromolecules. The third option mentions sugars and fats, but it also includes enzymes and amino acids, which are not macromolecules themselves but rather components of macromolecules. The fourth choice confuses nucleic acids by specifically naming DNA and RNA, but it omits lipids, which are equally important. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the comprehensive group of essential