Carbohydrates

Question

i. Carbohydrates are made up of monomers
ii. Monosaccharides are also called _________ ___________.
● Examples:
iii. What is the primary function of carbohydrates in our cells?
iv. Explain why carbohydrates are so well suited for this function.
b. Glucose provides energy for the body’s cells
18 Dehydration Synthesis and Hydrolysis (Source: Wikimedia)2

Answer 1

Sure! Let's fill in the blanks and answer the questions regarding carbohydrates.

i. Carbohydrates are made up of monomers known as monosaccharides.

ii. Monosaccharides are also called simple sugars.

• Examples: Glucose, Fructose, Galactose.

iii. The primary function of carbohydrates in our cells is to provide energy.

iv. Carbohydrates are well-suited for this function because they can be rapidly metabolized to release energy. When carbohydrates are broken down during cellular respiration, particularly glucose, they yield ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the main energy currency of the cell. Their chemical structure allows for quick energy release; for instance, glucose can be readily converted into energy through glycolysis and the citric acid cycle. Additionally, the storage form of carbohydrates, glycogen, can be quickly mobilized when energy is needed, making carbohydrates an efficient and accessible energy source for cellular activities.