Carbohydrates: Structure and Functions - A comprehensive guide to understanding the essential building blocks of life, focusing on monosaccharides, oligosaccharides, and their biological roles.
• Monosaccharides are simple sugars containing 3-8 carbon atoms, serving as fundamental building blocks
• Oligosaccharides form through glycosidic bonds and play crucial roles in biological processes
• Carbohydrates serve three main functions: energy storage, structural support, and genetic material components
• Different types include glucose, fructose, and galactose, each with specific biological roles
• Complex carbohydrates like polysaccharides serve as energy storage (glycogen) and structural components (cellulose)