Polysaccharides Flashcards
(3 cards)
1
Q
What are the two polysaccharides of starch?
A
Amylose (unbranched, 1,4-glycosidic bonds) and amylopectin (branched, 1,4 and 1,6-glycosidic bonds).
2
Q
What advantages do branched polysaccharides like glycogen have?
A
Compact, stores more glucose in less space.
Quickly hydrolyzed for energy.
Insoluble, so doesn’t affect water potential.
3
Q
Why is cellulose considered a structural polysaccharide?
A
Made of beta glucose with 1,4-glycosidic bonds.
Alternating glucose molecules form straight chains, allowing hydrogen bonding between chains, creating strong cellulose fibers.
