How to do c) Draw a diagram of amylose in solution

Answered: c) Draw a diagram of amylose in…

Biochemistry

9th Edition

ISBN:9781319114671

Author:Lubert Stryer, Jeremy M. Berg, John L. Tymoczko, Gregory J. Gatto Jr.

Publisher:Lubert Stryer, Jeremy M. Berg, John L. Tymoczko, Gregory J. Gatto Jr.

Chapter1: Biochemistry: An Evolving Science

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 1P

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c) Draw a diagram of amylose in solution

Expert Solution

Step 1: Brief intro to structure of starch

Starch is a polysaccharide composed of glucose units joined by α-1,4 glycosidic bonds. It is the most common carbohydrate in human diets and is contained in large amounts in staple foods such as wheat, potatoes, maize (corn), rice, and cassava (manioc). Starch is a mixture of two components: amylose and amylopectin.

Amylose is a linear chain of glucose molecules linked together by α-1,4 glycosidic bonds. Amylose is a relatively soluble starch component, and it forms a helical structure in solution.
Amylopectin is a branched chain of glucose molecules linked together by α-1,4 and α-1,6 glycosidic bonds. The branches are typically 25 to 30 glucose molecules long. Amylopectin is an insoluble starch component than amylose, and it forms a dense, globular structure in solution.

The structure of starch is important for its function as an energy storage molecule. The compact structure of starch allows it to be stored efficiently in plant cells.