Chapter 23, Problem 23.1E

Why is glucose considered the pivotal compound in carbohydrate metabolism?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason as to why glucose is considered the pivotal compound in carbohydrate metabolism is to be stated.

Concept introduction:

The carbohydrates play an important role in cell metabolism. Carbohydrates are the source of energy. They are broken down to glucose or other smaller molecules which is required to produce energy. Carbohydrates spare protein and fat for other uses. Some examples of carbohydrates are glucose, fructose, sucrose, lactose and maltose.

Answer to Problem 23.1E

Glucose is the key food for most organisms and major metabolic pathway involves either the use or synthesis of glucose. This is the reason why glucose is considered the pivotal compound in carbohydrate metabolism.

Explanation of Solution

The central substance in metabolism is glucose. Glucose is the key food for most organisms. The major metabolic pathway involves either the use or synthesis of glucose. The chemical degradation of glucose provides the energy in the cell. Therefore, glucose is considered the pivotal compound in carbohydrate metabolism.

Conclusion

Glucose is the key food for most organisms and major metabolic pathway involves either the use or synthesis of glucose. This is the reason why glucose is considered the pivotal compound in carbohydrate metabolism.