Starch is made from two alpha-glucose polymers, amylose and amylopectin. Which is quicker to break down and why?

Amylose is formed from 1-4 glycosidic bonds, creating a compact spiral structure. It is unbranched, therefore enzymes can only work from either end to break the bonds and release glucose monomers - broken down more slowly.Amylopectin contains 1-4 and 1-6 glycosidic bonds, creating a branched structure - enzymes can reach and break more bonds so amylopectin is more rapidly hydrolysed, allowing for quicker glucose release.

SA
Answered by Samhitha A. Biology tutor

9871 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe an action potential.


Why do organs need to be 'matched'?


How do negative and positive feedback loops occur and how are they different?


What is glycolysis?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning