What is the primary function of carbohydrates?

The primary function of carbohydrates is indeed to serve as a source of energy and provide structural support. Carbohydrates are organic molecules made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, and they play a crucial role in various biological processes.

As a source of energy, carbohydrates are broken down during cellular respiration to release energy for cellular activities. Glucose, a simple carbohydrate, is one of the main energy sources used by cells. Furthermore, carbohydrates are involved in energy storage forms, such as glycogen in animals and starch in plants, which can be readily mobilized when energy is needed.

In terms of structural support, carbohydrates are integral components of various biological structures. For instance, cellulose, a polysaccharide found in the cell walls of plants, provides rigidity and strength, allowing plants to maintain their structure. Similarly, chitin serves as a structural component in the exoskeletons of arthropods and fungal cell walls.

While other options mention important functions, they do not encompass the broad roles of carbohydrates. Genetic information storage is primarily the function of nucleic acids, whereas signaling molecules can include a range of compounds, not limited to carbohydrates. The transport of oxygen in the bloodstream is predominantly the role of hemoglobin, a protein, not carbohydrates.