Question

What is the generic name of glycans?

• A. Polysaccharides
• B. Monosaccharides
• C. Oligosaccharides
• D. Disaccharides

Hint:

Glycans = Polysaccharides = long chains of monosaccharides.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Glycans are complex carbohydrates, and their typical generic name is polysaccharides. They are large molecules composed of numerous monosaccharide units linked together. Below is a breakdown of the options to clarify why polysaccharides is correct:

• Polysaccharides: These are large, complex carbohydrates composed of long chains of monosaccharide units. They serve diverse functions such as energy storage and structural functions in organisms, making them a fitting generic name for glycans.
• Monosaccharides: They are the simplest form of carbohydrates and consist of single sugar units. Examples include glucose and fructose. They are not complex like glycans.
• Oligosaccharides: These are carbohydrates made of a small number (typically three to ten) of monosaccharide units. They are smaller than polysaccharides and do not fully represent the complex structure of glycans.
• Disaccharides: These consist of only two monosaccharide units. Examples include sucrose and lactose. They are not complex enough to be considered as glycans.