TEAS Science · Practice Question

    Biological Macromolecules: TEAS Practice Question with Answer & Explanation

    An original TEAS 7-style science practice question, written for nursing-school applicants — with a full breakdown of every answer choice.

    Question

    A botanist analyzes the nutrient composition of seeds harvested from two groups of sunflowers grown in different soil mixtures. The data shows that seeds from Group 1 have a significantly higher protein content by mass compared to seeds from Group 2. Which of the following is a logical inference based on this data?

    • A.Group 1 seeds contained more fatty acids than Group 2 seeds.
    • B.Group 1 seeds contained higher concentrations of amino acids than Group 2 seeds.
      Correct
    • C.Group 2 seeds contained more polysaccharides than Group 1 seeds.
    • D.Group 2 seeds contained higher levels of nucleotides than Group 1 seeds.

    Correct answer: B. High protein levels directly correlate to higher concentrations of amino acids, which are the fundamental building blocks of proteins.

    Understanding the Relationship Between Proteins and Amino Acids

    To answer this question correctly, you must understand the relationship between biological macromolecules and their building blocks (monomers). In the TEAS Science section, "Life and Physical Sciences" often tests your ability to link a complex substance to its fundamental components.

    Why Choice B is Correct

    Proteins are large molecules (polymers) made up of smaller units called amino acids. If Group 1 seeds are found to have a higher protein content, it logically follows that they contain a higher concentration of amino acids, as these are the components synthesized and stored to form those proteins. When a plant or animal consumes or produces more protein, the "building block" molecules (amino acids) are the primary source or result of that substance.

    Why the Other Options are Incorrect

    • Choice A and C: These options focus on lipids (fatty acids) and carbohydrates (polysaccharides). While these are essential nutrients, they are chemically distinct from proteins. High protein levels do not directly indicate the concentration of fats or sugars unless additional data is provided.
    • Choice D: Nucleotides are the building blocks of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA). While all living cells contain DNA, "protein content" is not a direct proxy for the amount of nucleotides present. A seed can be high in protein without necessarily being higher in genetic material than another seed of the same species.

    TEAS Concept: Macromolecules

    In the context of the TEAS, remember the four main classes of macromolecules and their monomers:

    1. Proteins: Amino Acids (linked by peptide bonds).
    2. Carbohydrates: Monosaccharides (like glucose).
    3. Lipids: Fatty acids and glycerol.
    4. Nucleic Acids: Nucleotides.

    Study Tip: The "Building Block" Rule

    Whenever a TEAS question mentions a specific macromolecule (like protein or starch), immediately look for its corresponding monomer (amino acids or monosaccharides) in the answer choices. This "Macro-to-Monomer" mapping is a frequent theme in biology questions!

    Quick study tip: Memorize the four macromolecules and their monomers: Proteins/Amino Acids, Carbs/Monosaccharides, Lipids/Fatty Acids, and Nucleic Acids/Nucleotides.

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