Carbohydrates

Question 1

Describe two differences between the structure of a cellulose molecule and a glycogen molecule.

Answer 1

-cellulose is made from alpha and beta glucose where glycogen is made from alpha
-cellulose is straight where as glycogen is circular
-cellulose is straight chained whereas glycogen is highly branched

Question 2

Explain one way in which starch molecules are adapted for their function in plant cells.

Answer 2

-Highly branched so faster breakdown to release glucose
-Osmoticaly inactive as insoluble

Question 3

Suggest and explain two ways the cell-surface membranes of the cells lining the uterus may be adapted to allow rapid transport of nutrients.

Answer 3

-Lots of microvilli which increase the surface area
-large number of protein Chanels for facilitated diffusion
-large number of protein carriers for active transport

Question 4

During early pregnancy, the glycogen in the cells lining the uterus is an important energy source for the embryo.
Suggest how glycogen acts as a source of energy.

Answer 4

-hydrolysed to glucose used in respiration.