What is the difference between the α and β configurations of a monosaccharide?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking to identify the difference between the alpha and beta configurations of a monosaccharide, specifically focusing on the position of the hydroxyl group.
Answer
In α configuration, the OH on C-1 is opposite C-6. In β, it's on the same side.
The α and β configurations of a monosaccharide differ in the position of the hydroxyl group at the anomeric carbon. In the α configuration, this OH group is on the opposite side of the ring from the CH2OH group (C-6), while in the β configuration, it is on the same side.
Answer for screen readers
The α and β configurations of a monosaccharide differ in the position of the hydroxyl group at the anomeric carbon. In the α configuration, this OH group is on the opposite side of the ring from the CH2OH group (C-6), while in the β configuration, it is on the same side.
More Information
These configurations arise due to the formation of cyclic structures in sugars where the carbon atom forming part of the ring becomes asymmetrical.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse the positioning relative to the plane of the ring instead of the relative positions to the CH2OH group.
Sources
- 25.5: Cyclic Structures of Monosaccharides - Anomers - chem.libretexts.org
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
