Question

The glycosidic linkages in cellulose and amylose are ........., respectively.

• A. α 1-4 and β 1-4
• B. β 1-4 and α 1-4
• C. β 1-4 and α 1-6
• D. α 1-4 and α 1-2

Hint:

Remember, cellulose uses β-1,4-glycosidic linkages, while amylose uses α-1,4-glycosidic linkages. These differences contribute to their unique structures and functions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the question.
Cellulose and amylose are both polysaccharides, but they differ in the types of glycosidic bonds between their glucose units. Cellulose consists of β-1,4-glycosidic bonds, while amylose contains α-1,4-glycosidic bonds. This difference in linkage leads to their distinct structural properties.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) α 1-4 and β 1-4: Correct — This is the correct representation of the linkages in amylose and cellulose.
(B) β 1-4 and α 1-4: Incorrect — This reverses the correct linkages.
(C) β 1-4 and α 1-6: Incorrect — The correct linkage for amylose is α 1-4, not α 1-6.
(D) α 1-4 and α 1-2: Incorrect — The correct linkage for cellulose is β 1-4, not α 1-2.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) α 1-4 and β 1-4 because amylose contains α-1,4 linkages, and cellulose contains β-1,4 linkages.