Question

Monosaccharides (simple sugars) are also called carbohydrates. Using what you have noticed and learned about the elements in monosaccharides and ratios of the elements, explain why the term carbohydrate is an appropriate term for this group of compounds.

Answer 1

Carbohydrate is one of major macromolecule and nutrient that is required for the energy and structure of body of almost every organism. These contains three elements that are carbon, hydrogen and oxygen in the ratio of 1:2:1. The general formula of carbohydrates is Cm(H20)n, in complex sugars m and n can be different.

Monosaccharides are simple sugars basic unit of disaccharides and polysaccharides. the ratio of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen are 1:2:1. As chemical level, they contain carbon, hydrogen and oxygen so termed as carbohydrates.