Which type of cellular molecule is primarily responsible for energy storage and transfer?

Carbohydrates are the primary molecules responsible for energy storage and transfer in cells. They serve as one of the key sources of energy for living organisms. When carbohydrates, such as glucose, are metabolized through cellular respiration, they release energy that can be used for various cellular processes.

In addition to immediate energy release, carbohydrates can also be stored in forms like glycogen in animals and starch in plants. This stored energy can be mobilized when needed, making carbohydrates essential for maintaining energy balance in organisms.

The other types of molecules play different roles: nucleic acids are primarily involved in storing and transmitting genetic information, proteins serve as building blocks and perform various functions including catalysis and transportation, while nitrates do not serve as direct energy sources but may play a role in nitrogen metabolism in organisms. Understanding the unique role of carbohydrates in energy storage highlights their importance in biological systems.