[Campbell Biology P.105] The signaling molecule dopamine is presented as an example of a car... | Practice Question
The signaling molecule dopamine is presented as an example of a carbon-containing biological molecule. Which statement best explains how its structure contributes to its specific functions, like promoting mother-infant bonding?
A: Dopamine's functions are primarily due to its simple carbon skeleton structure, which limits its interactions.
B: As a carbon-containing molecule, dopamine's specific properties and functions arise from the arrangement of its carbon skeleton and associated chemical groups.
C: Dopamine's ability to act as a signaling molecule stems from its unique ionic bonds with oxygen and nitrogen, allowing for rapid signal transmission.
D: The presence of only hydrogen and oxygen in dopamine's structure is key to its role in promoting mother-infant bonding.
Explanation
The text explicitly states: 'The properties of a carbon-containing molecule depend on the arrangement of its carbon skeleton and on its chemical groups.' This principle applies directly to dopamine's specific functions.