A monosaccharide is the simplest form of carbohydrate consisting of a single sugar molecule, such as glucose or fructose. They are fundamental building blocks for more complex carbohydrates.
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Monosaccharides have the general formula (CH2O)n where n is typically between 3 and 7.
They can exist in linear or ring structures, with the ring form being more common in aqueous solutions.
Glucose, a common monosaccharide, is a primary energy source for cells in many organisms.
Monosaccharides can be classified based on the number of carbon atoms they contain: triose (3 carbons), tetrose (4 carbons), pentose (5 carbons), hexose (6 carbons).
In microbiology, monosaccharides play a key role in metabolic pathways such as glycolysis.
Review Questions
What is the general chemical formula for a monosaccharide?
Name two common forms in which monosaccharides can exist.
Explain why glucose is important to cellular function.
Related terms
Polysaccharide: A complex carbohydrate composed of long chains of monosaccharide units bound together.