Beeswax is an example of what kind of molecule?
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A
Lipid
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B
Carbohydrate
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C
Protein
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D
Nucleic acid
Beeswax is an example of a lipid molecule.
Beeswax is composed mainly of wax esters, which are formed from long-chain fatty acids and long-chain alcohols. These compounds are hydrophobic, meaning they do not dissolve in water, and they belong to the lipid class of biological molecules. In nature, beeswax serves protective and structural roles, such as forming honeycomb cells and preventing water loss.
A) Lipid
Beeswax is a complex mixture of esters, fatty acids, and long-chain alcohols. Waxes are classified as lipids because they are nonpolar, water-insoluble, and energy-rich organic molecules. Like other lipids, beeswax is soluble in nonpolar solvents and functions in protection and structural support in living organisms. This makes lipid the correct classification.
B) Carbohydrate
Carbohydrates are molecules made of sugar units, such as glucose, and include starch, glycogen, and cellulose. They contain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in characteristic ratios and are usually involved in energy supply or structural support in plants. Beeswax does not contain sugar subunits and does not fit the chemical structure of carbohydrates.
C) Protein
Proteins are polymers of amino acids joined by peptide bonds and perform functions such as catalysis, transport, signaling, and structural support. Beeswax contains no amino acids and has no peptide bonds, so it cannot be classified as a protein.
D) Nucleic acid
Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are made of nucleotides and are responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information. Beeswax contains no nucleotides, nitrogenous bases, or sugar-phosphate backbone, so it is not a nucleic acid.
Conclusion
Beeswax is chemically classified as a lipid because it is composed of fatty acid–based compounds and is hydrophobic in nature. Therefore, the correct answer is A) Lipid.

Topic Flashcards
Click to FlipTo which major class of biomolecules does beeswax belong?
Lipids.
What are the main chemical components of beeswax?
Wax esters (formed from long-chain fatty acids and long-chain alcohols).
What physical property of beeswax is typical of lipids?
Hydrophobic (insoluble in water, soluble in nonpolar solvents).
What is the primary biological role of beeswax in a beehive?
To build honeycomb cells for storage and protection, providing a waterproof structure.
Which biomolecule class includes sugars and starches, and is chemically distinct from beeswax?
Carbohydrates. Beeswax is not a carbohydrate.