Give the name of one or more polysaccharides that matches each of the following descriptions:


(d) produces maltose during digestion

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the polysaccharide that breaks down into maltose during digestion.
2. Recall that maltose is a disaccharide composed of two glucose units.
3. Consider polysaccharides that are composed of glucose units linked together.
4. Recognize that starch is a polysaccharide that can be broken down into maltose.
5. Understand that the enzyme amylase catalyzes the breakdown of starch into maltose.

Key Concepts

Polysaccharides

Polysaccharides are large, complex carbohydrates composed of long chains of monosaccharide units. They serve various functions in living organisms, including energy storage and structural support. Common examples include starch, glycogen, and cellulose. Understanding their structure and function is essential for identifying how they are broken down during digestion.

Maltose

Maltose is a disaccharide sugar formed from two glucose molecules. It is produced during the digestion of starch, a polysaccharide, by the action of enzymes such as amylase. Maltose can be further broken down into glucose, which is utilized by the body for energy. Recognizing the relationship between polysaccharides and maltose is crucial for answering the question.

Digestion of Carbohydrates

The digestion of carbohydrates involves breaking down complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars that the body can absorb. This process begins in the mouth with salivary amylase and continues in the small intestine with pancreatic enzymes. Understanding the stages of carbohydrate digestion helps in identifying which polysaccharides yield specific sugars like maltose during the digestive process.