Carbohydrates – AP Biology Flashcard
What are carbohydrates?
Organic compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, primarily used as a source of energy.
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What are carbohydrates?
Organic compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, primarily used as a source of energy.
General formula for carbohydrates?
(CH2O)n, where "n" is the number of carbon atoms.
Types of carbohydrates?
Monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides.
Example of a monosaccharide?
Glucose, fructose, or galactose.
Example of a disaccharide?
Sucrose, lactose, or maltose.
What are polysaccharides?
Long chains of monosaccharide units linked together, such as starch, glycogen, and cellulose.
Main function of carbohydrates?
Provide energy for cells, especially in the form of glucose.
How are carbohydrates classified?
Based on their structure: simple (sugars) and complex (starches and fibers).
What is glucose?
A simple sugar (monosaccharide) and primary energy source for the body.
What is glycogen?
A polysaccharide stored in the liver and muscles for energy in animals.
What is cellulose?
A polysaccharide found in plant cell walls, providing structural support.
What is starch?
A polysaccharide used by plants to store energy.
What are disaccharides made of?
Two monosaccharides linked by a glycosidic bond.
Enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates?
Amylase.
What is the role of fiber in digestion?
Helps regulate the body's use of sugars, keeping hunger and blood sugar in check.
What are simple carbohydrates?
Sugars, including monosaccharides and disaccharides, that are quickly digested and absorbed.
What are complex carbohydrates?
Polysaccharides, such as starch and fiber, that take longer to digest.
Difference between amylose and amylopectin?
Amylose is linear and unbranched, while amylopectin is highly branched.
What is the glycemic index (GI)?
A measure of how quickly a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood glucose levels.
What is insulin's role in carbohydrate metabolism?
Insulin helps cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream for energy or storage.
What is lactose intolerance?
The inability to digest lactose, a disaccharide found in milk, due to a deficiency in lactase enzyme.
What is the primary carbohydrate in milk?
Lactose.
What are refined carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates that have been processed, stripping them of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
What are whole grains?
Grains that contain all parts of the grain kernel: bran, germ, and endosperm.
What is the role of carbohydrates in exercise?
Provide quick energy during high-intensity exercise through glycogen breakdown.
How many calories per gram do carbohydrates provide?
4 calories per gram.
What is the storage form of carbohydrates in plants?
Starch.
What is the main source of carbohydrates in the diet?
Grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
What are oligosaccharides?
Carbohydrates made of 3-10 monosaccharide units, often found in legumes and vegetables.
What is a glycosidic bond?
A covalent bond that links two monosaccharides to form disaccharides or polysaccharides.