Explain the structure of cellulose

Cellulose is a linear polysaccharide polymer with many glucose monosaccharide units. The linkage is beta, which makes it different from starch. This difference results in a major different in digestibility in humans. Humans are unable to digest cellulose because the appropriate enzymes to breakdown the beta linkages are lacking. Cellulose is mostly a linear chain but the second monomer is flipped.

SG
Answered by Sarika G. Biology tutor

4881 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Compare and contrast the similarities and differences between meiosis and mitosis.


How do expiration and inspiration occur by the action of the lungs?


Explain the stages of an ECG trace.


Explain how a synapse between two neurons functions


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