Monosaccharides

Monosaccharides are the simplest form of carbohydrates and cannot be hydrolyzed to smaller carbohydrates. They are the building blocks of disaccharides and polysaccharides (more complex carbohydrates). Monosaccharides may be further classified based on the functional group present and the number of carbon atoms in the backbone.

Classification

Monosaccharides can be classified into aldoses and ketoses based on the type of functional group present. Aldoses have an aldehyde functional group at the end of the carbon chain and ketoses have a ketone functional group in the middle of the carbon chain.

They can also be classified based on the number of carbon atoms present. For example, trioses (three carbon atoms), tetroses (four carbon atoms), pentoses (five carbon atoms), hexoses (six carbon atoms), and so on.

Structure

Monosaccharides can exist in a straight chain or a ring structure, and they can switch between the two forms. They are usually found in the ring form in biological systems. The ring structure is formed by a reaction between the carbonyl group and a hydroxyl group in the same molecule.

Examples

Some common examples of monosaccharides include glucose, fructose, and galactose. Glucose is the most common monosaccharide and is the primary source of energy in cells. Fructose is found in fruits and honey, while galactose is a component of lactose in milk.

Functions

Monosaccharides serve various functions in living organisms. They are a source of energy, as in the case of glucose. They also serve as building blocks for more complex carbohydrates. In addition, they play roles in cell signaling, molecular recognition, and immune response.

See also

• Disaccharide
• Polysaccharide
• Carbohydrate

Monosaccharides Resources
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