How do polysaccharides differ structurally and functionally from simple carbohydrates?

Question

Ruby Armstrong · Accepted Answer

polysaccharides are used mainly as to store energy whereas monosaccharides are used to be used for respiration

Monosaccharides are polymers of polysaccharides, such as cellulose, starch, and glycogen. Animals have a storage molecule called glycogen, which is insoluble and unaffected by the water potential. It contains both 1-4 and 1-6 glycosidic bonds. Animals store carbohydrates as starch, which is actually composed of two compounds: amylopectin and amylose. Amylopectin has more 1-6 glycosidic bonds than amylose, which means that more glucose can be joined to form a compact molecule. Amylose has 1-4 glycosidic bonds, so it will spiral. Being a structural carbohydrate, cellulose helps to fortify a plant's cell wall. I hope this is useful. x

Benjamin Alvin · Answer

undefined Functionally, polysaccharides function as energy storage molecules and structural components in organisms, whereas simple carbohydrates provide quick energy. Structurally, polysaccharides have long chains of sugar molecules, whereas simple carbohydrates have shorter chains or single molecules. Polysaccharides are large, complex carbohydrates made up of multiple sugar units, whereas simple carbohydrates consist of one or two sugar units.