Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is NOT a way monosaccharides differ from one another?
A
Type of carbonyl group
B
Presence of a phosphate group
C
Number of carbon atoms
D
Configuration of hydroxyl groups
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic structure of monosaccharides: Monosaccharides are the simplest form of carbohydrates and consist of a single sugar molecule. They typically contain a carbonyl group (either an aldehyde or ketone) and multiple hydroxyl groups.
Identify the types of carbonyl groups: Monosaccharides can have either an aldehyde group (aldoses) or a ketone group (ketoses). This is a key way in which monosaccharides differ from one another.
Consider the number of carbon atoms: Monosaccharides can vary in the number of carbon atoms they contain, typically ranging from three to seven. This is another way they differ from one another.
Examine the configuration of hydroxyl groups: The spatial arrangement of hydroxyl groups around the carbon atoms can vary, leading to different stereoisomers. This is a significant factor in the diversity of monosaccharides.
Evaluate the presence of a phosphate group: Monosaccharides do not inherently differ by the presence of a phosphate group. Phosphate groups are typically added during metabolic processes, such as phosphorylation, and are not a distinguishing feature of monosaccharides themselves.