Structure of Cellulose

Composed of beta glucose molecules

Cellulose is made by linking a 1 - 4 glucose molecules

Glucose molecules alternate in their orientation due to OH groups

Forms a straight chain

Parallel chains cross-linked with hydrogen bonds, forming bundles of microfibrils

Function: the microfibrils are strong and rigid and give tensile strength to the plant cells, preventing them form bursting even with high pressure