Describe the structure of starch. How does this structure make starch well suited for energy storage?

Starch is a mix of 2 different polysaccharides:1) Amylose: a long chain of α-glucose monomers joined by 1,4-glycosidic bonds. The chain coils in a spiral shape, held together by hydrogen bonds. This shape makes starch well suited to energy storage as it is compact, so takes up little space in the cell, and not very soluble in water, so does not affect the water potential of the cell. 2) Amylopectin: branched chains of α-glucose monomers joined by 1,4-glycosidic bonds and 1,6-glycosidic bonds. The 1,6-glycosidic bonds form the links which make branches.The branches mean there are many glucose molecules accessible on the end of chains which can be easily broken off by hydrolysis for use in respiration. Therefore amylopectin can provide a rapid supply of energy. Branching also makes it compact, it takes up little space in the cell.

Answered by Molly S. Biology tutor

65669 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What does the primary structure of a protein refer to?


What is the structure of DNA?


Describe how a Pacinian corpuscle produces a generator potential when stimulated.


How does temperature effect enzymes?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences