Chapter 23, Problem 3RAT

To determine

The correct option for the statement “Which of the following functional groups play the biggest role in the properties of carbohydrates?”

Answer to Problem 3RAT

The correct option for the statement “Which of the following functional groups play the biggest role in the properties of carbohydrates?” is option (a).

Explanation of Solution

The general formula for a monosaccharide is ${\left({\text{CH}}_2\text{O}\right)}_n$ where the value of $n$ varies from $3$ to $7$ . It is regarded as the fundamental unit of a carbohydrate molecule.

There are twenty monosaccharides which occur in naturally. The class of monosaccharide which contains an aldehyde $\left(-\text{CHO}\right)$ group and a ketone $\left(-\text{CO}-\right)$ group are termed as aldoses and ketoses respectively.

Therefore, the carbohydrates are defined as the optically active polyhydroxy aldehyde or polyhydroxy ketone or the substance which give these molecules on hydrolysis.

Thus, the functional group which plays the important role in the properties of carbohydrates is alcohol $\left(-\text{OH}\right)$ group.

Hence, the correct option is (a).

Conclusion:

The carbohydrates are formed by the repeating of monosaccharide units and they on hydrolysis give polyhydroxy aldehyde or polyhydroxy ketone. Thus, functional group which plays the important role in the properties of carbohydrates is alcohol $\left(-\text{OH}\right)$.