18 Questions
What type of linkage allows cellulose to form long straight chains?
β(1→4) linkage
Why is cellulose considered water-insoluble?
Presence of β(1→4) glycosidic linkage
Which polysaccharide is often strengthened by lignin in cell walls?
Cellulose
How does the structure of cellulose differ from that of amylose?
Amylose has branched chains, while cellulose forms long straight chains
What is the role of hemicellulose in cell walls?
Acting as a cementing material between cellulose fibers
How is the structure of cellulose suited to its function?
Cellulose forms long straight chains due to β(1→4) linkages, providing rigidity and strength
What distinguishes glycogen from amylopectin in terms of branch points?
Glycogen has branch points every 8 to 12 glucose residues.
What distinguishes glycogen from starch in terms of compactness?
Glycogen is more compact than starch.
Why does cellulose contain only β(1→4) glycosidic linkages?
To resist enzymatic degradation.
What is the primary function of chitin in organisms?
Structural support in cell walls.
Which component is NOT typically found in plant cell walls aside from cellulose?
Glycogen.
What distinguishes hemicellulose and pectins from cellulose in plant cell walls?
They are more soluble in water.
What is the major component of the hard exoskeletons of most arthropods and the cell walls of fungi?
Chitin
How is chitin different from cellulose at the chemical level?
Acetylated amino group at C2
Which type of chitin exists as all parallel chains in nature?
α-Chitin
What function does chitin serve when used to make surgical thread?
Decomposes after healing
Cellulose primarily serves which function in nature?
Provides structural support in plant cell walls
What type of linkage is found in cellulose between glucose monomers?
1–4 linkage of β glucose monomers
Learn about the structure and properties of cellulose, a polysaccharide made up of long straight chains with β(1→4) linkages. Discover how cellulose forms microfibrils, and why it is rigid and water-insoluble. Explore the presence of cellulose in cotton and wood.
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