Which is a primary structural difference between glucose and galactose?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the key differences between glucose and galactose, specifically focusing on their structural composition. We need to identify which option correctly represents a primary structural difference between these two sugars, particularly looking at aspects such as carbon atoms, hydroxyl group orientation, element types, or glycosidic bond types.
Answer
Orientation of the hydroxyl group (OH) at carbon 4.
The primary structural difference between glucose and galactose is the orientation of the hydroxyl group (OH) at the fourth carbon atom.
Answer for screen readers
The primary structural difference between glucose and galactose is the orientation of the hydroxyl group (OH) at the fourth carbon atom.
More Information
Though glucose and galactose have the same chemical formula, they are epimers, meaning they differ only in the configuration around one specific carbon atom. This small structural variation can lead to different properties and biological functions.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming that all structural differences are significant; however, in the case of glucose and galactose, only the orientation of the hydroxyl group at one carbon atom differentiates them.
Sources
- The structure of glucose and galactose - vedantu.com
- What are the differences between glucose and galactose? - aatbio.com
- What is the difference between glucose and galactose? - Quora - quora.com
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