Vitamin B1 assists an organic catalyst in cell respiration. This vitamin functions as
A. a polypeptide
B. a coenzyme
C. a substrate
D. an inorganic catalyst
B) a coenzyme
- Correct: Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, functions as a coenzyme in cell respiration. Coenzymes are small molecules that assist enzymes in catalyzing biochemical reactions. In the case of thiamine, it serves as a coenzyme for several enzymes involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, particularly in the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) and the pentose phosphate pathway, which are essential processes in cell respiration. Thiamine helps in the conversion of carbohydrates into energy, ultimately facilitating ATP production.
A) a polypeptide
- Incorrect: Polypeptides are chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, and they serve as the building blocks of proteins. Vitamin B1 is not a polypeptide itself but rather a small organic molecule.
C) a substrate
- Incorrect: Substrates are molecules upon which enzymes act to catalyze biochemical reactions. Vitamin B1 is not a substrate but rather a cofactor (coenzyme) that assists enzymes in catalyzing reactions.
D) an inorganic catalyst
- Incorrect: Inorganic catalysts are typically metallic ions or small inorganic molecules that facilitate chemical reactions but are not part of the reaction products. Vitamin B1 is an organic molecule derived from thiazole and pyrimidine rings and is not classified as an inorganic catalyst.
Therefore, the Correct Answer is B.