MDCAT Biology MCQ #980

The protective cuticle on a leaf surface is composed of waxes. What is the chemical mechanism for the synthesis of these waxes?

MDCAT Biology MCQ #980

  1. Question 1

    Q1. The protective cuticle on a leaf surface is composed of waxes. What is the chemical mechanism for the synthesis of these waxes?

    • A) Esterification of fatty acids with long-chain alcohols
    • B) Condensation of three fatty acids with glycerol
    • C) Polymerization of isoprene units into rings
    • D) Hydrolysis of phospholipids into phosphatidic acid

    Answer: Esterification of fatty acids with long-chain alcohols

    Explanation: Waxes are unique lipids formed by the esterification of long-chain fatty acids with long-chain alcohols, providing water-proofing.