describe functions and sturctures of polysaccharides
Answers
can you please tell the structure of polysaccharide question mark
Explanation:
Structure of Polysaccharides
All polysaccharides are formed by the same basic process where monosaccharides are connected via glycosidic bonds. These glycosidic bonds consist of an oxygen molecule bridging two carbon rings. The bond is formed when a hydroxyl group is lost from the carbon of one molecule, while the hydrogen is lost by the hydroxyl group of another monosaccharide. Because two molecules of hydrogen and one of oxygen are expelled, the reaction is a dehydration reaction. The structure of the molecules being combined determines the structures and properties of the resulting polysaccharide. A polysaccharide used for energy storage will give easy access to the constituent monosaccharides whereas a polysaccharide used for support is usually a long chain of monosaccharides that form fibrous structures.
Functions of Polysaccharides
Polysaccharides form a crucial part of cell function and structure.
Storage polysaccharides: Polysaccharides such as starch and glycogen are called storage polysaccharides because they are stored in the liver and muscles to be converted to energy later for body functions. Starch is found in plants whereas glycogen is found in animals.
Structural polysaccharides: Polysaccharides such as cellulose are structural polysaccharides which are found in the cell walls of plants. Another structural polysaccharide is chitin.
