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Carbohydrates definitions

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  • Carbohydrate

    A carbon-based molecule with multiple hydroxyl groups, serving as a primary energy source and structural component in cells.
  • Saccharide

    A sugar unit, ranging from single molecules to long chains, forming the basic building blocks of carbohydrates.
  • Monosaccharide

    A single sugar unit acting as the monomer for larger carbohydrate structures, exemplified by glucose.
  • Oligosaccharide

    A carbohydrate composed of 2 to 20 covalently linked monosaccharide units, often involved in cell recognition.
  • Polysaccharide

    A polymer consisting of more than 20 monosaccharide units, serving roles in energy storage and structural support.
  • Glucose

    The most abundant simple sugar, following the formula C6H12O6, and a key energy source for cells.
  • Glycosidic Bond

    A covalent linkage formed between monosaccharide units during the synthesis of larger carbohydrate molecules.
  • Dehydration Synthesis

    A process that joins monosaccharides by removing a water molecule, resulting in the formation of larger carbohydrates.
  • Hydrolysis

    A reaction that splits polysaccharides into monosaccharides by adding water, facilitating carbohydrate breakdown.
  • Cellulose

    A structural polysaccharide found in plant cell walls, providing rigidity and support to plant cells.
  • Chitin

    A structural polysaccharide present in the exoskeletons of insects and crustaceans, offering protection and support.
  • Starch

    A storage polysaccharide in plants, composed of glucose units, serving as an energy reserve.
  • Glycogen

    A storage polysaccharide in animals, primarily found in the liver and muscles, storing glucose for energy.
  • Hydroxyl Group

    A functional group consisting of an oxygen and hydrogen atom, abundant in carbohydrate structures.
  • Energy Storage

    A primary function of certain carbohydrates, allowing organisms to retain and mobilize glucose as needed.