Starch is made from two alpha-glucose polymers, amylose and amylopectin. Which is quicker to break down and why?

Amylose is formed from 1-4 glycosidic bonds, creating a compact spiral structure. It is unbranched, therefore enzymes can only work from either end to break the bonds and release glucose monomers - broken down more slowly.Amylopectin contains 1-4 and 1-6 glycosidic bonds, creating a branched structure - enzymes can reach and break more bonds so amylopectin is more rapidly hydrolysed, allowing for quicker glucose release.

SA
Answered by Samhitha A. Biology tutor

10374 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is chemiosmosis?


What's the difference between a Synapse and a Neuromuscular Junction?


What is the function of the mitochondria?


Why is the polymerase chain reaction important and how does it work?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning