Questions and Answers
What are carbohydrates?
Carbohydrate is a fancy way of saying 'sugar.'
What elements are present in the macromolecule?
Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
Give examples of the macromolecule.
Vegetables, whole fruits, legumes, potatoes, and whole grains.
What is the name of the monomer of this macromolecule?
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What function(s) does this macromolecule have in the human body?
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What food sources does this macromolecule come from?
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Study Notes
Carbohydrates Overview
- Carbohydrates, commonly referred to as sugars, consist of carbon (C) atoms bonded with hydroxide (OH-) groups.
- They can vary in size from small to large molecules and serve crucial functions in food storage and structural integrity in plants.
Elements and Composition
- Composed of three elements: carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
- Arrangements of these elements form various types of carbohydrates, such as glucose, which contains six carbon atoms, twelve hydrogen atoms, and six oxygen atoms.
Examples of Carbohydrates
- Whole carbohydrates are found in foods like vegetables, whole fruits, legumes, potatoes, and whole grains, which are healthy choices.
- Refined carbohydrates include sugar-sweetened beverages, fruit juices, pastries, white bread, white pasta, and white rice, often less nutritious.
Monomer of Carbohydrates
- The basic building blocks or monomers of carbohydrates are called monosaccharides.
Functions in the Human Body
- Carbohydrates primarily function as energy sources and play a role in digestion.
- They break down into glucose, the simplest carbohydrate, which serves as the body's primary energy source.
Food Sources of Carbohydrates
- Major sources of carbohydrates are plant-based foods.
- Simple carbohydrates include glucose, maltose, fructose, and sucrose, primarily derived from plants, while lactose is found in milk.
- Common grains, such as bread and cereals, are recognized as significant carbohydrate sources.
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Description
This quiz covers the essential aspects of carbohydrates, including their composition, types, and roles in nutrition. Learn about the differences between whole and refined carbohydrates and their importance in human health.