Apply: formation of biomolecules

A scientist carried out an experiment to follow the movement of carbon atoms within animal cells. To do this, the scientist added glucose with radioactively labeled carbon atoms to a culture of cells growing in a Petri dish.

After a certain amount of time had passed, the scientist tested parts of the cells for radioactivity. Radioactivity was detected in various biomolecules, including proteins.

Which of the following statements best explains why radioactivity was detected in the cells’ proteins?

(Choice A)
Carbon atoms that were once in the radioactively labeled glucose were used to form proteins in the cells.
(Choice B)
The proteins were in close proximity to the radioactive glucose during their formation.
(Choice C)
The proteins were made up of radioactively labeled glucose subunits.

High school biology - NGSS

Course: High school biology - NGSS > Unit 3

Problem