University:
Liberty University
Course:
BIOM 500 | Introduction to Biomedical Sciences
Academic year:

2024
Views:

326

Pages:

8
Author:

Sheha A.

**Based on the type of monomeric units:** Polysaccharides are further classified into 2 groups: Homopolysaccharides and Heteropolysaccharides. **a) Homopolysaccharides (Homoglycans):** Polysaccharides which are made up of only one type of monosaccharide units are called homopolysaccharides. **Examples are:** * **Starch:** Plant storage, homopolysaccharide made up of only glucose molecules. * **Glycogen:** Animal storage, homopolysaccharide made up of only glucose. * **Cellulose:** Plant structural homopolysaccharide made up of only glucose. * **Inulin:** Plant homopolysaccharide made up of only fructose molecules. **b) Heteropolysaccharides (Heteroglycans):** Polysaccharides made up of more than one type of monosaccharide units are called heteropolysaccharides. **Examples:** * Agar * Glycosaminoglycans (Mucopolysaccharides) **Molisch Test:** This test is a general test for the detection of carbohydrates. **Procedure:** To 1ml of carbohydrate solution, 2 to 3 drops of α-naphthol is added. Then 1ml of concentrated H₂SO₄ is added along the side of the test tube. **Observation:** A reddish-violet ring is formed at the junction of two layers. **Principle:** Carbohydrates undergo dehydration when treated with concentrated H₂SO₄ to form furfural or its derivatives. These condense with α-naphthol to form a reddish-violet compound, which settles between the two layers. **Benedict's Test:** This test is used to detect the presence of reducing sugars.