How do disaccharides dissolve in water?

Question

Sebastian Alvarado · Accepted Answer

undefined Disaccharides dissolve in water through a process called hydration. This occurs because disaccharides, such as sucrose or lactose, are polar molecules with hydrophilic functional groups like hydroxyl (-OH) groups. When placed in water, the polar water molecules interact with the hydrophilic groups of the disaccharides, forming hydrogen bonds. As a result, the water molecules surround the disaccharide molecules, effectively separating them and allowing them to dissolve.

Madeline Andrews · Answer

Water dissolves disaccharides by forming hydrogen bonds with them.

The simple rule is, "Like dissolves like".

In other words, molecules that are polar will dissolve in a polar solvent like water.

A disaccharide like sucrose has many polar OH groups.

Water molecules are strongly attracted each other by hydrogen bonds.

But they are also strongly attracted to the sucrosee.

Water forms hydrogen bonds to the sucrose molecules.

Sucrose can easily get between the water molecules, so sucrose dissolves in water.

Natalie Ahrens · Answer

undefined Disaccharides break down into their component monosaccharide units and form a solution in water as a result of hydrogen bonding between the hydroxyl groups of the sugar molecules and the water molecules.