Non-structural carbohydrates are carbohydrates that are easily digestible and primarily serve as energy sources for plants and animals. Here are three types, along with examples of each:
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Sugars: These are simple carbohydrates that provide quick energy.
- Example: Glucose, which is commonly found in fruits and is a primary product of photosynthesis.
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Starch: This is a complex carbohydrate made up of long chains of glucose molecules, serving as an energy reserve in plants.
- Example: Amylopectin, which is a component of starch commonly found in potatoes and corn.
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Oligosaccharides: These are short chains of monosaccharides that can serve as energy sources and have various roles in plant metabolism.
- Example: Raffinose, which is found in beans and other legumes and consists of galactose, glucose, and fructose.
These non-structural carbohydrates play crucial roles in energy storage and metabolism for both plants and animals.