Carbohydrates are a diverse group of biomolecules that play critical roles in biological systems. They can be classified into simple and complex carbohydrates, with several functions ranging from energy provision to structural components in cells. One common example of a carbohydrate is glucose, which is often referred to as a simple sugar or monosaccharide.
Monosaccharides can combine through glycosidic bonds to form disaccharides and polysaccharides. Understanding the structure of these carbohydrates is essential for grasping their biological significance. As a medical student, it is vital to comprehend how carbohydrate structures relate to their functions in metabolic pathways.
Which of the following statements about carbohydrate structure and function is TRUE?