Introduction to Carbohydrates

A set of practice questions covering the fundamental characteristics, elemental composition, and classification of carbohydrates.

What is the most abundant group of organic compounds on Earth?

Carbohydrates

What are the major elemental components of carbohydrates?

$C$, $H$, and $O$

What is the ratio of Hydrogen to Oxygen in carbohydrates?

$2:1$, which is the same ratio found in water

What is the general chemical formula for carbohydrates provided in the notes?

$$C(H_2O)_n$$

What are the three major groups of carbohydrates?

Monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides

Which categories of carbohydrates are generally included under the term 'sugars'?

Monosaccharides and disaccharides