Notable structure: Equal number of carbon and oxygen atoms, twice the number of hydrogen atoms.
Importance of Carbohydrates
Primary energy source for living organisms.
Classification of Carbohydrates
Simple Carbohydrates (Sugars):
Known as saccharides.
Monosaccharides: Single sugar molecule. Example: Glucose.
Quick energy source due to easy breakdown.
Examples: Glucose, Fructose, Galactose, Dextrose.
Disaccharides: Two bonded monosaccharides.
Example: Sucrose (Glucose + Fructose).
Commonly known sugars end with "ose".
Complex Carbohydrates (Polysaccharides):
Long chains of monosaccharides.
Termed as polymers. Each single unit is a monomer.
Examples: Cellulose, Starches, Glycogen.
Cellulose: Structural component in plant cell walls.
Starches: Found in foods like potatoes, corn, grains (wheat, rice).
Glycogen: Storage form of glucose in liver and muscles.
Summary
Carbohydrates are crucial energy sources in organisms.
Monosaccharides and disaccharides are simple sugars with names often ending in "ose".
Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates including cellulose, starches, and glycogen, each serving different structural and storage functions in plants and animals.