Carbohydrates Biochemical Analysis Study Guide

These flashcards cover important concepts related to carbohydrates, their types, roles, and sources.

What are carbohydrates primarily used for in the body?

They provide glucose which is converted to energy.

What are the three types of carbohydrates?

Monosaccharides, Disaccharides, Polysaccharides.

What is the ratio of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in carbohydrates?

1:2:1 ratio (CH2O)n.

What defines a monosaccharide?

A monosaccharide is a single sugar unit.

Give an example of a hexose sugar.

Glucose is a common example.

What are disaccharides made of?

Two monosaccharides joined by a glycosidic bond.

What are two examples of disaccharides?

Sucrose and lactose.

What is the role of polysaccharides?

Polysaccharides serve as energy storage molecules or structural components.

What is the difference between starch and cellulose?

Starch is a storage polysaccharide, while cellulose serves a structural role in plant cell walls.

Why is glycogen considered highly branched?

Glycogen has branches that allow for rapid energy release.

How do reducing sugars differ from non-reducing sugars?

Reducing sugars have a free aldehyde or ketone group and can be oxidized, while non-reducing sugars do not.

What are some sources of healthy carbohydrates?

Unprocessed whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and beans.

What are unhealthy sources of carbohydrates?

White bread, pastries, and highly processed foods.

What is a glycosidic bond?

A bond formed between monosaccharides during the formation of disaccharides.

What is the primary sugar found in RNA?

Ribose.