Question

Respiration is the most important biochemical reaction which provides energy to the cells. Oxygen inhaled enters our lungs and is responsible for various body functions. Carbohydrate glucose undergoes combustion to release energy.

What are carbohydrates?

Answer 1

Carbohydrates

1. Carbohydrates are polyhydroxy ketones or aldehydes or compounds that produce such units on hydrolysis.
2. All sugar molecules are carbohydrates.
3. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for most organisms.
4. Examples - Glucose $\left({\mathrm{C}}_6{\mathrm{H}}_{12}{\mathrm{O}}_6\right)$ and Sucrose $\left({\mathrm{C}}_{12}{\mathrm{H}}_{22}{\mathrm{O}}_{11}\right)$.

Hence, carbohydrates are sugar molecules (polyhydroxy aldehydes or ketones) that act as the primary source of energy.