Question

Structurally, cellulose is a linear polymer of :

• A. $\beta$-D-glucose units
• B. sucrose molecules
• C. $\alpha$-D-glucose units
• D. glucose and fructose units

Answer 1

The correct option is A $\beta$-D-glucose units

Cellulose is a linear polymer of $\beta$-D-glucose units, which in contrast to starch, is oriented with $-C{H}_{2}OH$ groups alternating above and below the plane of the cellulose molecule thus producing long, unbranched chains. The absence of side chains allows cellulose molecules to lie close together and form rigid structures. Cellulose is the major structural material of plants. Wood is largely cellulose, and cotton is almost pure cellulose.