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269

2 Jul 2025

6 pages

How Tiny Sugar Pieces Help Build Big Molecules in Animals

H

heamoglobin

@affinity

Role of monosaccharides and polysaccharides in biologyforms the foundation... Show more

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Basic Molecular Processes

This section explores the fundamental chemical reactions in biological systems and the relationship between monomers and their resulting polymers.

Vocabulary: Condensation reaction - A process where two molecules join together with the loss of water.

Vocabulary: Hydrolysis - The breaking of chemical bonds by the addition of water.

Example: Glucose molecules join together through condensation reactions to form larger carbohydrate molecules.

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Monosaccharides and Their Combinations

The page details the various forms of simple sugars and their combinations into more complex carbohydrates.

Definition: Monosaccharides are simple sugars that serve as the basic units of carbohydrates.

Example: Glucose, fructose, and galactose are common monosaccharides found in biological systems.

Highlight: The formation of glycosidic bonds through condensation reactions allows monosaccharides to form more complex carbohydrates.

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Starch Structure and Function

This section examines the composition and importance of starch in plant cells.

Definition: Starch is a plant storage polysaccharide composed of alpha glucose units.

Vocabulary: Amylose - Unbranched chains of alpha glucose molecules. Vocabulary: Amylopectin - Branched chains of alpha glucose molecules.

Highlight: The branched structure of amylopectin allows for rapid energy access through efficient enzyme action.

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Glycogen and Cellulose

The page explores the structural and functional differences between animal and plant polysaccharides.

Definition: Glycogen is the primary storage form of glucose in animal cells.

Highlight: The highly branched structure of glycogen enables quick energy release when needed.

Example: Cellulose microfibrils, formed by hydrogen bonding between beta glucose chains, provide structural support to plant cells.

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Structural Comparisons

This final section compares the different polysaccharides and their biological roles.

Highlight: The type of glucose alphaorbetaalpha or beta and bonding pattern determines the final structure and function of the polysaccharide.

Example: While glycogen and starch serve as energy storage molecules, cellulose provides structural support.

Definition: Microfibrils are strong fibrous structures formed by multiple cellulose chains joined by hydrogen bonds.

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Introduction to Biological Molecules

The fundamental understanding of biological molecules begins with the relationship between monomers and polymers. This page introduces the core concepts of molecular biology.

Definition: Biological molecules are the building blocks of life, consisting of monomers that join together to form polymers.

Highlight: The formation and breakdown of biological molecules occur through condensation and hydrolysis reactions respectively.

Example: Amino acids join to form proteins, nucleotides form DNA, and monosaccharides form carbohydrates.



We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Biology

269

2 Jul 2025

6 pages

How Tiny Sugar Pieces Help Build Big Molecules in Animals

H

heamoglobin

@affinity

Role of monosaccharides and polysaccharides in biology forms the foundation of carbohydrate structure and function in living organisms. This comprehensive guide explores the formation, structure, and biological significance of various carbohydrates.

  • Condensation reaction in biological moleculesjoins monomers together, releasing... Show more

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Basic Molecular Processes

This section explores the fundamental chemical reactions in biological systems and the relationship between monomers and their resulting polymers.

Vocabulary: Condensation reaction - A process where two molecules join together with the loss of water.

Vocabulary: Hydrolysis - The breaking of chemical bonds by the addition of water.

Example: Glucose molecules join together through condensation reactions to form larger carbohydrate molecules.

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Monosaccharides and Their Combinations

The page details the various forms of simple sugars and their combinations into more complex carbohydrates.

Definition: Monosaccharides are simple sugars that serve as the basic units of carbohydrates.

Example: Glucose, fructose, and galactose are common monosaccharides found in biological systems.

Highlight: The formation of glycosidic bonds through condensation reactions allows monosaccharides to form more complex carbohydrates.

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Starch Structure and Function

This section examines the composition and importance of starch in plant cells.

Definition: Starch is a plant storage polysaccharide composed of alpha glucose units.

Vocabulary: Amylose - Unbranched chains of alpha glucose molecules. Vocabulary: Amylopectin - Branched chains of alpha glucose molecules.

Highlight: The branched structure of amylopectin allows for rapid energy access through efficient enzyme action.

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Glycogen and Cellulose

The page explores the structural and functional differences between animal and plant polysaccharides.

Definition: Glycogen is the primary storage form of glucose in animal cells.

Highlight: The highly branched structure of glycogen enables quick energy release when needed.

Example: Cellulose microfibrils, formed by hydrogen bonding between beta glucose chains, provide structural support to plant cells.

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Structural Comparisons

This final section compares the different polysaccharides and their biological roles.

Highlight: The type of glucose alphaorbetaalpha or beta and bonding pattern determines the final structure and function of the polysaccharide.

Example: While glycogen and starch serve as energy storage molecules, cellulose provides structural support.

Definition: Microfibrils are strong fibrous structures formed by multiple cellulose chains joined by hydrogen bonds.

BIOLOGICAL
MOLECULES
REVISION NOTES Biological molecules
Key points:
Condensation reaction-formation of chemical
bond between monomers, rele

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Introduction to Biological Molecules

The fundamental understanding of biological molecules begins with the relationship between monomers and polymers. This page introduces the core concepts of molecular biology.

Definition: Biological molecules are the building blocks of life, consisting of monomers that join together to form polymers.

Highlight: The formation and breakdown of biological molecules occur through condensation and hydrolysis reactions respectively.

Example: Amino acids join to form proteins, nucleotides form DNA, and monosaccharides form carbohydrates.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user