Biological Molecules

Question 1

Starch (Function, Structure, Explanation)

Answer 1

Function: Main storage polysaccharide in plants

Structure: Amylose: Helix alpha glucose
Amylopectin: branched alpha glucose

Explanation:
Insoluble - no osmotic effect
Helix - compact- so can fit into a small space
Branches - hydrolyzed easily to release glucose

Question 2

Cellulose (Function, Structure, Explanation)

Answer 2

Function: Forms cell walls - structure

Structure: Adjacent chains of long unbranched polymers of beta glucose

Explanation: Hydrogen bonds to form microfibrils which are strong

Question 3

Glycogen

Function, Structure, Explanation

Answer 3

Function: Main storage polysaccharide in animals

Structure: Alpha glucose - short branched chains

Explanation: Extremely compact and very quickly hydrolyzed