Difference between revisions of "Carbohydrate"
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| − | '''Carbohydrates''' are organic molecules used to store [[energy]] and provide support. They are an important part of the [[human]] diet. Most carbohydrates will be produced by [[plants]] in [[greenhouse|greenhouses]]. | + | '''Carbohydrates''' are a class of organic molecules used to store [[energy]] and provide support. They are an important part of the [[human]] diet. Most carbohydrates will be produced by [[plants]] in [[greenhouse|greenhouses]]. |
==Energy Storage== | ==Energy Storage== | ||
| − | [[Starch]], [[glucose]], and [[fructose]] are used for energy storage | + | Many carbohydrates such as [[Starch]], [[glucose]], [[lactose]], and [[fructose]] are used for energy storage by plants and [[animals]]. |
==Structural Support== | ==Structural Support== | ||
| − | [[Chitin]] is used by [[insects]] and other [[arthropods]] for support and protection. Cell walls made of [[cellulose]] are a defining characteristic of plants. This carbohydrate provides the majority of the stregnth needed for trees to support their own weight. | + | [[Chitin]] is used by [[insects]] and other [[arthropods]] for support and protection. Cell walls made of [[cellulose]] are a defining characteristic of plants. This carbohydrate, in concert with [[lignin]], provides the majority of the stregnth needed for trees to support their own weight. |
==Open Issues== | ==Open Issues== | ||
| + | * What carbohydrates can be produced artificially? | ||
| + | |||
| + | [[category:chemistry]] | ||
Revision as of 15:40, 15 December 2008
Carbohydrates are a class of organic molecules used to store energy and provide support. They are an important part of the human diet. Most carbohydrates will be produced by plants in greenhouses.
Energy Storage
Many carbohydrates such as Starch, glucose, lactose, and fructose are used for energy storage by plants and animals.
Structural Support
Chitin is used by insects and other arthropods for support and protection. Cell walls made of cellulose are a defining characteristic of plants. This carbohydrate, in concert with lignin, provides the majority of the stregnth needed for trees to support their own weight.
Open Issues
- What carbohydrates can be produced artificially?
