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Carbohydrates

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Biology for Non-STEM Majors

Definition

Carbohydrates are organic compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. They are a primary source of energy for living organisms and are found in foods like bread, pasta, and fruits.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Carbohydrates can be classified into three main types: monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides.
  2. Glucose is a common monosaccharide that is essential for cellular respiration.
  3. Starch and glycogen are polysaccharides that serve as energy storage molecules in plants and animals respectively.
  4. Cellulose is a polysaccharide that provides structural support in plant cell walls.
  5. The process of breaking down carbohydrates into simple sugars is called hydrolysis.

Review Questions

  • What are the three main types of carbohydrates?
  • How does glucose function in cellular respiration?
  • What roles do starch and cellulose play in plants?
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