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Glucose Structure and Function

Glucose Structure

Understanding α and β forms

Key Differences

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Structure

α: OH group is below carbon number 1 (C1)
β: OH group is above carbon number 1 (C1)
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Bonding

α: Forms alpha 1-4 and 1-6 glycosidic bonds
β: Forms beta 1-4 glycosidic bonds
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Function

α: Main substrate for respiration. Forms starch (energy storage)
β: Forms cellulose. Structural.

Quick Tips

  • •Look at the OH group on Carbon 1
  • •This orientation affects how glucose chains form and what molecules are formed
  • •Carbon 6 is located on a stalk and is not in the main ring.
  • •Drag to rotate, scroll to zoom