Chapter 24, Problem 12STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To state whether the given statement is true or false.

Concept Introduction: Carbohydrates are biochemical substances that contain a polyhydroxy aldehyde or polyhydroxy ketone group.

The classification of carbohydrates is done based on molecular sizes which are as follows:

• Monosaccharide
• Disaccharide
• Polysaccharide

Answer to Problem 12STP

Statement II is not the correct explanation for statement I.

Explanation of Solution

The essential enzyme that is needed for the breaking of cellulose is not present in humans, thus cellulose is indigestible in humans while salvia contains the enzymes which help in breaking the starch molecules thus, it is digestible by humans.

Starch and cellulose both come under the category of polysaccharides which are long-chain carbohydrate molecules.

Both starch and cellulose are made up of glucose monomeric units. Starch is digested by many organisms while for many organisms it is difficult to digest cellulose.

Therefore, starch is digestible by most organisms while cellulose does not.

Conclusion

Hence, statement II is not the correct explanation for the statement I.