Polysaccharides are formed by the condensation of many glucose units
A polysaccharide is a large carbohydrate molecule. Many glucose units join together through condensation reactions, each releasing a water molecule, to build it.
Formula
Polysaccharide + nH₂O → n Glucose (hydrolysis); n Glucose → Polysaccharide + nH₂O (condensation)
Real World
When Weetabix is digested, the starch polymer in the wheat is broken back down into glucose monomers by amylase — the reverse of the condensation that built it.
Exam Focus
Always state that condensation releases water AND forms a glycosidic bond — both points are needed for full marks.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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