Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam Practice 2026 – Comprehensive Prep

Carbohydrates primarily serve as a quick and readily available source of energy for the body, making them essential for metabolic processes. When consumed, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is then used by cells to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy currency of the cell. This rapid conversion highlights their role in providing short-term energy, as glucose can be used immediately or stored as glycogen for later use.

Long-term energy storage is primarily the function of fats, which store more energy per gram than carbohydrates and can be mobilized when needed over a longer duration. While carbohydrates can contribute to structural components like certain types of fiber in plants, their main role is not in providing structural support. Additionally, cell membranes are mainly formed by lipids, with carbohydrates playing a minor role in cell signaling and recognition rather than in the structural composition. Hence, the significance of carbohydrates lies in their ability to provide short-term, accessible energy for metabolic activities.