Question

Identify the product obtained when sucrose is treated with conc. H₂SO₄.

• A. Gluconic acid and fructose
• B. Glucose and fructose
• C. Sugar charcoal and water
• D. Saccharic acid

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Sucrose, a common disaccharide, is composed of two monosaccharides: glucose and fructose. When sucrose is treated with concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4), it undergoes a reaction known as hydrolysis. This process breaks the glycosidic bond between glucose and fructose, leading to the formation of glucose and fructose as separate molecules. Let's explore this reaction in detail.

The Reaction: Hydrolysis of Sucrose

When sucrose (C12H22O11) is treated with concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4), a hydrolysis reaction occurs. In this reaction, the sulfuric acid acts as a catalyst and helps in breaking the glycosidic bond between the glucose and fructose units in sucrose. The addition of water, which is present in trace amounts in sulfuric acid, helps to break this bond, producing the two monosaccharides:

Glucose (C6H12O6) and Fructose (C6H12O6).

The chemical equation for this reaction can be written as:

    C12H22O11 + H2O → C6H12O6 (Glucose) + C6H12O6 (Fructose)

Why Does This Reaction Happen?

Sucrose is a disaccharide that consists of one glucose molecule and one fructose molecule linked by a glycosidic bond. When concentrated sulfuric acid is added to sucrose, the acid catalyzes the hydrolysis reaction, breaking the glycosidic bond and separating the two monosaccharides.

Key Points to Remember

Sucrose is a disaccharide made up of glucose and fructose.

Concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4) acts as a catalyst in the hydrolysis reaction.

The products of the reaction are glucose and fructose.

This reaction is an example of hydrolysis, where water is added to break a bond.

Applications of the Reaction

The hydrolysis of sucrose is a simple but important reaction in the field of biochemistry. Understanding this reaction helps in the study of how disaccharides break down into monosaccharides, which are fundamental units of energy in living organisms. It is also important in industrial processes where monosaccharides like glucose and fructose are used for various applications, including sweeteners and food processing.

Conclusion

The product obtained when sucrose is treated with concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is glucose and fructose, as the sulfuric acid catalyzes the hydrolysis reaction, breaking the glycosidic bond between the glucose and fructose molecules in sucrose. The correct option is:

(B) Glucose and Fructose