Question

Carbohydrates have hydrogen oxygen atom ratio of:

• A. 1:2
• B. 3:1
• C. 1:3
• D. 2:1

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Carbohydrates are organic compounds that are essential for energy storage and structure within cells. They are primarily composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. To understand the typical ratio of hydrogen to oxygen atoms in carbohydrates, consider the example of glucose, which is one of the most common carbohydrates.

The chemical formula for glucose is C₆H₁₂O₆. In this formula, you can observe the following: 

• Number of Hydrogen atoms (H): 12
• Number of Oxygen atoms (O): 6

Now, calculate the ratio of hydrogen atoms to oxygen atoms:

\(\text{Ratio of H to O} = \frac{12}{6} = 2:1\)

This calculation shows that the hydrogen to oxygen atom ratio in glucose, and typically in carbohydrates, is 2:1. This can also be generally stated as carbohydrates having hydrogen and oxygen atoms in a 2:1 ratio, similar to that of water (H₂O).

Hence, the correct answer to the question is 2:1.

Let’s evaluate the options:

• 1:2 – Incorrect. This would indicate more oxygen than hydrogen, which is not the case in carbohydrates.
• 3:1 – Incorrect. This suggests a higher proportion of hydrogen, which again doesn't match the carbohydrate structure.
• 1:3 – Incorrect. This implies more oxygen atoms relative to hydrogen, which is contrary to the chemical makeup of carbohydrates.
• 2:1 – Correct. As established through calculation, carbohydrates typically exhibit this ratio.

Thus, the answer 2:1 accurately reflects the ratio of hydrogen to oxygen in carbohydrates.