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Multiple Choice
What is structurally different about cellulose when compared to starch?
A
Cellulose is composed of glucose and fructose, while starch is composed only of glucose.
B
Cellulose contains alpha-1,6-glycosidic linkages, while starch contains beta-1,6-glycosidic linkages.
C
Cellulose has beta-1,4-glycosidic linkages, while starch has alpha-1,4-glycosidic linkages.
D
Cellulose is a branched polymer, while starch is a linear polymer.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the basic building blocks of both cellulose and starch. Both are polysaccharides composed of glucose units, but they differ in the type of glycosidic linkages between these units.
Examine the glycosidic linkages: Cellulose is characterized by beta-1,4-glycosidic linkages. This means that the glucose units are connected through beta linkages at the 1st and 4th carbon atoms.
Contrast this with starch, which primarily consists of alpha-1,4-glycosidic linkages. In starch, the glucose units are connected through alpha linkages at the 1st and 4th carbon atoms.
Consider the structural implications of these linkages: Beta linkages in cellulose result in a straight, rigid structure, which is why cellulose forms strong fibers. Alpha linkages in starch result in a more flexible structure, allowing it to be more easily digestible.
Finally, note that cellulose is a linear polymer due to its beta linkages, whereas starch can be both linear and branched (as in amylopectin) due to its alpha linkages.