Chapter 24, Problem 28GQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The equilibrium constant of conversion of $\alpha \text{-D-glucose}$ to $\beta \text{-D-glucose}$ has to be found.

Concept introduction:

Glucose is the simplest carbohydrate. It is a monosaccharide. Glucose exists in two forms that are $\alpha \text{-D-glucose}$ and $\beta \text{-D-glucose}$. The difference between them is the position of hydrogen and hydroxide group on the $\text{1-C}$ atom.

The $\beta \text{-D-glucose}$ is a more stable form of glucose. The conversion of $\alpha \text{-D-glucose}$ to $\beta \text{-D-glucose}$ should be spontaneous.