Tag: Nitrogen in protein

According to the mnemonic often used in biology, proteins are classified as CHON, not CHO. This distinction highlights the key difference in their elemental composition, with the inclusion of nitrogen being the defining factor that separates proteins from other common biomolecules like carbohydrates and lipids.

Over 50% of the dry weight of a cell is protein, highlighting its immense biological importance. Understanding how the elements of a protein differ from a carbohydrate is fundamental to comprehending their unique roles, from providing structural support to supplying energy.