Monosaccharides are the monomers from which larger carbohydrates are made; glucose, galactose and fructose are common monosaccharides
Monosaccharides are the smallest sugar units in biology. Glucose, galactose, and fructose are three common examples — they act as building blocks for larger carbohydrates.
Formula
Molecular formula: C₆H₁₂O₆
Real World
Lactose-free milk sold by Arla has had lactose pre-split into glucose and galactose — the same two monosaccharides your own gut would otherwise need to separate using the enzyme lactase.
Exam Focus
When asked to compare monosaccharides, state they are structural isomers — same molecular formula, different arrangement — for the distinction mark.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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