Which polysaccharide is an important component in the structure of many animal and fungal cells?

• A. Cellulose
• B. Chitin
• C. Starch
• D. Glycogen

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of polysaccharides in biological structures. Polysaccharides are long chains of monosaccharide units and serve various functions, including structural support and energy storage.
2. Identify the polysaccharides listed in the problem: Cellulose, Chitin, Starch, and Glycogen.
3. Recall the primary function and occurrence of each polysaccharide: Cellulose is a major component of plant cell walls, Starch is a storage form of energy in plants, Glycogen is a storage form of energy in animals, and Chitin is a structural component in the exoskeletons of arthropods and cell walls of fungi.
4. Focus on the requirement of the problem: an important component in the structure of many animal and fungal cells.
5. Conclude that Chitin is the polysaccharide that fits the description, as it is found in the exoskeletons of arthropods (animals) and the cell walls of fungi.