Topic 1.2.3 - Polysaccharides Flashcards
3 main polysaccharides
Starch
cellulose
glycogen
What are polysaccharides used as?
An energy store
What is the name for the polysaccharide when there are 3-10 monosaccharides?
Ogliosaccharide
What is the name for the polysaccharide when there are 11 or more monosaccharides?
Polysaccharide
Why are polysaccharides good for storage?
The glycosidic bonds are easily broken meaning monosaccharides can be released for respiration
They are very compact so can be stored inside cells
Not soluble in water so no effect on water potential
What type of reaction breaks down a polysaccharide?
A hydrolysis reaction
properties of starch
Made of alpha glucose
Compact
Insoluble
properties of starch-amylose
Long chain of alpha glucose
unbranched
Coiled structure which makes it compact
1,4 glycosidic bonds
Properties of starch-amylopectin
Long chains of alpha glucose
Branched structure
Branches allow enzymes to break it down so glucose can be released
Describe the structure of cellulose and how it’s adapted to its function.
Polymer of beta glucose
From chains that run parallel with hydrogen bonds in between the chains which form microfibrils.
Straight molecule.
Provides strength to stop cell lysis
Glucose allows minerals to pass through.
Properties of glycogen
Animals store carbohydrates as glycogen
Made of alpha glucose
Branched structure
Stored in small granules
Broken down more rapidly as it’s more soluble than starch
What does calcium pectate do?
Found in the middle lamella
Holds cell walls together
