What are monosaccharides?

The simplest form of carbohydrates, also known as 'simple sugars'.

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What is the general formula for monosaccharides?

Monosaccharides have the formula (CH2O)n where n can be any number from 3 to 7.

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What is the difference between pentose and hexose sugars?

Pentose sugars have 5 carbon atoms whereas hexose sugars have 6 carbon atoms. 

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What is the formula for glucose? 

Glucose has the formula C6H12O6. 

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What are the names of the two glucose isomers? 

  1. Alpha-glucose
  2. Beta-glucose

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What is the difference between alpha-glucose and beta-glucose?

The orientation of the hydroxyl group on carbon 1.

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What is the primary energy source in animals and plants?

The primary energy source is glucose.

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Why is glucose a good energy source?

Glucose is soluble and its bonds store lots of energy.

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What are disaccharides?

Carbohydrates formed when two monosaccharides join together

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Name three examples of disaccharides.

  1. Maltose
  2. Sucrose
  3. Lactose

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Name the monosaccharides found in maltose, sucrose, and lactose. 

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How are disaccharides formed?

Disaccharides are formed via condensation reactions.


The hydroxyl group (OH) on carbon 1 of one monosaccharide reacts with the hydroxyl group (OH) on carbon 4 of another monosaccharide.


This forms a 1-4 glycosidic bond and releases a water molecule. 

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How are disaccharides broken down?

Disaccharides are broken down via hydrolysis reactions.


A water molecule is added to a disaccharide and the glycosidic bond is broken to release the 2 monosaccharides. 

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