Disaccharides

Definition

Disaccharides are carbohydrates composed of two monosaccharide molecules linked by a glycosidic bond. They are essential for energy storage and transport in living organisms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sucrose, lactose, and maltose are common examples of disaccharides.
2. Disaccharides are formed through a dehydration synthesis reaction that releases a molecule of water.
3. They can be broken down into their monosaccharide components via hydrolysis.
4. Enzymes like sucrase, lactase, and maltase help in the digestion of disaccharides.
5. Disaccharides play crucial roles in metabolism and energy provision.

Review Questions

• What is the process called that forms disaccharides from monosaccharides?
• Name three common examples of disaccharides.
• Which enzymes are responsible for breaking down sucrose, lactose, and maltose?

Related terms

Monosaccharide: The simplest form of carbohydrates consisting of single sugar molecules like glucose and fructose.

Polysaccharide: Carbohydrates that consist of long chains of monosaccharide units bonded together.

Glycosidic Bond: A type of covalent bond that links carbohydrate (sugar) molecules together in disaccharides and polysaccharides.