Question

what are the primary elements that make up carbohydrates? *
a) carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen
b) carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen
c) hydrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus
d) carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze the structure

The given structure is a carbohydrate. Carbohydrates are organic compounds.

Step2: Recall the elemental composition

Organic compounds (carbohydrates) are made up of carbon (\(C\)), hydrogen (\(H\)), and oxygen (\(O\)).

• Option A: Nitrogen (\(N\)) is not a primary element in carbohydrates.
• Option C: Sulfur (\(S\)) and phosphorus (\(P\)) are not primary elements in carbohydrates.
• Option D: Nitrogen (\(N\)) is not a primary element in carbohydrates.

Answer:

B. Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen