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Multiple Choice
Which statement correctly describes the structural difference between starch and cellulose?
A
Cellulose is soluble in water, while starch is not.
B
Starch is a linear polymer, whereas cellulose is a branched polymer.
C
Starch is composed of α-glucose units, while cellulose is composed of β-glucose units.
D
Both starch and cellulose are composed of β-glucose units.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic structure of glucose: Glucose is a monosaccharide with the chemical formula C₆H₁₂O₆. It exists in two forms, α-glucose and β-glucose, which differ in the orientation of the hydroxyl group (-OH) on the first carbon atom.
Explore the structure of starch: Starch is a polysaccharide composed of α-glucose units. It consists of two types of molecules, amylose (linear) and amylopectin (branched), both of which are made from α-glucose.
Examine the structure of cellulose: Cellulose is a polysaccharide composed of β-glucose units. It forms a linear chain where each β-glucose unit is linked by β(1→4) glycosidic bonds, resulting in a strong and rigid structure.
Compare the solubility: Cellulose is generally insoluble in water due to its strong hydrogen bonding between chains, whereas starch can be soluble depending on its form (amylose or amylopectin).
Identify the correct statement: The structural difference between starch and cellulose is that starch is composed of α-glucose units, while cellulose is composed of β-glucose units. This difference in glucose configuration leads to distinct properties and functions in biological systems.