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Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules is a monosaccharide?
A
C51H98O6
B
C45H84O8PN
C
C25H43O8
D
C22H49O10N5
E
C6H12O6
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the definition of a monosaccharide: Monosaccharides are the simplest form of carbohydrates and are often referred to as simple sugars. They typically have the chemical formula (CH2O)n, where n is usually 3 to 7.
Identify the general formula for common monosaccharides: The most common monosaccharide is glucose, which has the formula C6H12O6. This fits the general formula (CH2O)n with n=6.
Analyze the given molecular formulas: Compare each of the provided molecular formulas to the typical formula for a monosaccharide.
Check the number of carbon atoms: Monosaccharides usually have 3 to 7 carbon atoms. The given options have carbon counts of 51, 45, 25, and 22, which are all outside the typical range for monosaccharides.
Identify the correct formula: The correct answer provided is C6H12O6, which matches the typical formula for a monosaccharide, specifically glucose, confirming it as a monosaccharide.