Question

Cellulose and starch are examples of ________. a. monosaccharides b. disaccharides c. lipids d. polysaccharides

Short answer

Answer: Cellulose and starch belong to the category of polysaccharides.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding cellulose and starch

Cellulose and starch are both carbohydrate molecules. Cellulose is a major structural component in plant cell walls, while starch is the main storage form of carbohydrates in plants.

Characteristics of monosaccharides

Monosaccharides are the simplest form of carbohydrates, consisting of a single sugar molecule, such as glucose or fructose.

Characteristics of disaccharides

Disaccharides are carbohydrates composed of two monosaccharides joined together, such as sucrose (table sugar) which consists of glucose and fructose.

Characteristics of lipids

Lipids are a group of hydrophobic molecules that include fats, oils, and waxes. They are not carbohydrates and their primary functions include energy storage, membrane structure, and hormone production.

Characteristics of polysaccharides

Polysaccharides are long chains of monosaccharides linked together by glycosidic bonds. They serve various functions, such as energy storage (e.g., starch) and structural support (e.g., cellulose).

Identifying the category for cellulose and starch

Since cellulose and starch are both long chains of monosaccharides linked together, they fall under the category of polysaccharides. Therefore, the correct answer is: d. polysaccharides