Carbohydrates - Monosacharides

Monosaccharides

1. Monosaccharides are the basic building blocks of carbohydrates. It cannot be broken down further into smaller units of carbohydrates.
2. Also known as simple sugars.
3. All monosaccharides are reducing sugars.
4. All monosaccharides are soluble in water.
5. Some monosaccharides have sweet taste.
6. Examples of monosaccharides are glucose, fructose and galactose.
   

Glucose
Formula: C₆H₁₂O₆

1. Most common monosaccharide in living organisms
2. Monomer of most polysaccharides
3. End product in the digestion of starches and glycogen.

Fructose
Formula: C₆H₁₂O₆

1. Constituent of sweet fruits and honey.

Galactose
Formula: C₆H₁₂O₆

1. Found in milk