Biology GR 12 Ontario- Unit 1: Biochemistry L2: Carbohydrates

How does the structure of a molecule relate to it’s function?

Depending on how hydrophobic/ hydrophilic a molecule is, it affects the hydrogen bonding and behaviour of the macromolecule.

Carbohydrates break down into what?

Simple sugars/ starch

Carbohydrates contain which elements?

Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (C, H, O)

What is its function?

Quick and short term energy storage. It is the body’s first source of energy as it is easily accesible.

What are the two kinds of carbohydrates?

Simple carbohydrates (monosaccharides) and complex carbohydrates (polysaccharides)

What are the three most popular simple sugar isomers?

GlucOSE, fructOSE, and galactOSE. They are all C6H12O6 and follow the 1:2:1 ratio.

Glucose and it’s structure

When glucose dissolves in H2O, it is in RING FORM but dry glucose almost always has LINEAR structure

Polysaccharides (and how they are formed)

Those are two monosaccharides joined by covalent bond called GLYCOSIDIC LINKAGE. This reaction is called CONDENSATION

Ex of forming a polysaccharide:

Glucose + Fructose → ?

Sucrose

Describe three important characteristics of Polysaccharides

• Three or more monosaccharides joined by a glycosidic linkage

• Since they have longer chains, it takes more time to consume energy: therefore, it is longer term energy

• Main function: within carbohydrates, even though monosaccharides are used before polysaccharides, both are used up first compared to other macromolecules. This is why carbohydrates as a whole is considered quick and easy access to energy

Starch and its purpose + examples

Structure: link 1 Carbon - 4/6 Carbon

Is responsible for energy storage in plants. And it is a linear long chain of glucose. Ex, potatoes, corn and beans.

Glycogen and its purpose + examples

Structure: Link 1 Carbon - 6 Carbon

When body has more than enough glucose, the body will store in is liver/ muscles. Theres also larger branching than starch, so it is harder to break down. Too much glycogen in muscles and liver can result in Glycogen Starch Disease.

Cellulose - PROTECTS

It is used by plants to build walls. It is a form of polysaccharides for plants in cell walls.