Question

question 3 (multiple choice worth 2 points) (02.02r mc) if a body is decomposed enough that normal recognition isnt possible, what macromolecule might a forensic scientist test for to confirm that remains are human and try to get a match to a missing person? lipids proteins nucleic acids carbohydrates

Explanation:

Nucleic acids, specifically DNA (a type of nucleic acid), contain the genetic information unique to each individual. Even if a body is decomposed, DNA can potentially be extracted (from sources like bones, teeth in some cases) and analyzed. Forensic scientists use techniques like DNA profiling (STR analysis, etc.) to compare the DNA from the decomposed remains with the DNA of a missing person (if available, e.g., from personal items with biological material like a toothbrush, or from close family members to infer). Carbohydrates are more likely to be broken - down quickly during decomposition. Proteins also degrade over time, and while some proteins might be more stable (like keratin in hair and nails to some extent), they don't carry the same unique genetic code as nucleic acids. Lipids can also be affected by decomposition processes and do not serve as the primary molecule for individual identification in the same way nucleic acids (DNA) do.

Answer:

Nucleic acids