how does the structural features of starch relate to its function? Flashcards
1
Q
what is the significance of starch having a large molecule made up of many alpha-glucose residues & how does it contribute to the function of starch?
A
- as it is a large molecule, starch is insoluble is water, & thus prevented from diffusing out of cells
- starch also can be stored in large amounts without having any great effect on water potential of cells, allow it to act as a storage molecule in plants
2
Q
what is the significance of starch having a compact shape & how does it contribute to the function of starch?
A
- as starch is highly compact, the cells are able to storage a large amount of glucose within their fixed volumes
- this allows starch molecules to accumulate in the cell to form starch grains, allowing starch to carry out its function as a storage carbohydrate in plants
3
Q
what is the significance of starch having a highly branched structure & how does it contribute to the function of starch?
A
- as starch is highly branched, there are many free ends for enzymes to bind & hydrolyse starch,
- allowing more glucose to be released at a faster rate,
