Carbohydrates Quiz: Properties and Functions

Study Notes

Hydrophobic Carbohydrates: Starch is a type of carbohydrate that has a low affinity to water. This is because starch is composed of long chains of glucose molecules that are tightly packed together, making it difficult for water molecules to penetrate and dissolve it.
Solubility in Water: Carbohydrates like starch, glycogen, and cellulose are not readily soluble in water. This is due to their large and complex structures, which limit their interaction with water molecules.
Energy Storage in Plants: Starch is the primary carbohydrate used for energy storage in plants. It is synthesized by plants through photosynthesis and stored in various parts of the plant, such as roots, stems, and seeds.
Non-Sugar Carbohydrate: Cellulose is a carbohydrate that isn't classified as a sugar. It is a structural polysaccharide found in plant cell walls and is composed of long chains of glucose molecules.
Carbohydrate Solubility: While carbohydrates generally form hydrogen bonds with water, their solubility in water is influenced by their structure. Simple sugars like glucose and fructose readily dissolve in water due to their smaller size and greater exposure of polar hydroxyl groups. In contrast, larger and more complex carbohydrates like starch and cellulose are less soluble in water.