Question

Which of the following carbohydrates has/have a \( \beta 1 \to 4 \) glycosidic linkage?

• A. Cellulose
• B. Chitin
• C. Lactose
• D. Maltose

Hint:

Carbohydrates like cellulose, chitin, and lactose contain \( \beta 1 \to 4 \) linkages, while maltose contains an \( \alpha 1 \to 4 \) linkage.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B, C

Step 1: Understanding glycosidic linkages.
The \( \beta 1 \to 4 \) glycosidic linkage is found in polysaccharides like cellulose and chitin. In these carbohydrates, glucose or N-acetylglucosamine units are linked via \( \beta \)-linkages between the 1st carbon of one unit and the 4th carbon of another. Lactose also contains a \( \beta 1 \to 4 \) linkage, but it is a disaccharide formed by galactose and glucose. Maltose, on the other hand, has an \( \alpha 1 \to 4 \) glycosidic linkage.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) Cellulose: Correct, as cellulose contains \( \beta 1 \to 4 \) linkages.
- (B) Chitin: Correct, as chitin also contains \( \beta 1 \to 4 \) linkages.
- (C) Lactose: Correct, as lactose contains a \( \beta 1 \to 4 \) linkage between galactose and glucose.
- (D) Maltose: Incorrect, as maltose contains an \( \alpha 1 \to 4 \) linkage.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answers are (A), (B), and (C) as they contain the \( \beta 1 \to 4 \) glycosidic linkage.