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Question 870009
JEE Chemistry · Hard

Biomolecules and Polymers: Starch vs cellulose MCQ

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Starch vs celluloseHardQuestion 870009

Question

Starch and cellulose are both polymers of glucose but differ in:
  1. A
    Glycosidic linkage: α in starch, β in cellulose
    Correct
  2. B
    Number of glucose units
  3. C
    Molecular formula of glucose
  4. D
    Presence of nitrogen

Correct answer

Glycosidic linkage: α in starch, β in cellulose

Explanation

Both are glucose polymers (C₆H₁₀O₅)ₙ. Starch: α-1,4 glycosidic bonds (humans can digest). Cellulose: β-1,4 glycosidic bonds (humans cannot digest — no cellulase enzyme). The different bond geometry causes helical (starch) vs linear (cellulose) structures.

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