Bio Molecules- Polysaccharides

Question 1

Describe the structure of glycogen.

Answer 1

Glycogen is a polysaccharide.
It is a polymer of alpha glucose.
Linked by 1,4 and 1,6 glycosidic bonds.

Question 2

Suggest how glycogen acts as a source of energy.

Answer 2

Hydrolysis of glycogen provides alpha glucose.
This can be used in aerobic respiration to release energy for growth.

Question 3

Hydrogen bonds are important in cellulose molecules. Explain why.

Answer 3

-MANY hydrogen bonds are strong or there are cross-linkages between chains

-Which makes cellulose a strong molecule.

Question 4

A starch molecule has a spiral shape. Explain why this shape is important to its function in cells.

Answer 4

Starch is compact so lots of glucose can be stored in a small volume.

Question 5

Describe two ways in which molecules of cellulose are similar to molecules of starch. (2)

Answer 5

-Both are insoluble

• Both contain glycosidic bonds
• Both have 1-4 glycosidic bonds

Question 6

Describe how you would use a biochemical test to show that a solution contained protein. (2)

Answer 6

-Add Biuret solution.
-Lilac colour, protein present.