Polysaccaride Structures

Question 1

What is the structure of Amylopectin?

Answer 1

• Long branched chain of α-glucose molecules
• It has 1-4 glycosidic bonds and branches formed by 1-6 glycosidic bonds
• Makes molecules compact stored in a small space
  -Allows the rapid release of glucose-branched- it can store more glucose molecules
• Branched structure

Question 2

What is the structure of Glycogen?

Answer 2

• Highly branched chain of α-glucose molecules
• Can easily add or remove glucose molecules- more energy can be stored in a small space
• Enzymes can access the glycosidic bonds easily and hydrolyse glucose quickly
• Glycogen forms more branches then amylopectin
• Insoluble in water- does not affect the water potential of cells

Question 3

What is the structure of Amylase?

Answer 3

• Long unbranched chain of α-glucose molecules
• 1-4 glycosidic bonds
• Coiled structure- compact and less soluble
• Long chain of glucose twists to form a helix stabilised by h bonds within the molecule

Question 4

What is the structure of Cellulose?

Answer 4

• Made up of long, straight, unbranched chains f β-glucose molecules
• 1-4 glycosidic bonds
• Every 2nd monosaccharide is flipped 180 degrees
• Hydrogen bonds formed between each strand of cellulose- high tensile strength- stops cell from bursting
• Insoluble