Describe the structure of starch. How does this structure make starch well suited for energy storage?

Starch is a mix of 2 different polysaccharides:1) Amylose: a long chain of α-glucose monomers joined by 1,4-glycosidic bonds. The chain coils in a spiral shape, held together by hydrogen bonds. This shape makes starch well suited to energy storage as it is compact, so takes up little space in the cell, and not very soluble in water, so does not affect the water potential of the cell. 2) Amylopectin: branched chains of α-glucose monomers joined by 1,4-glycosidic bonds and 1,6-glycosidic bonds. The 1,6-glycosidic bonds form the links which make branches.The branches mean there are many glucose molecules accessible on the end of chains which can be easily broken off by hydrolysis for use in respiration. Therefore amylopectin can provide a rapid supply of energy. Branching also makes it compact, it takes up little space in the cell.

MS
Answered by Molly S. Biology tutor

76976 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

If fetal haemoglobin is so good at binding oxygen, why aren't we adapted to keep it until adulthood?


Describe the process that converts a genetic sequence on messenger RNA into the primary sequence of a protein


What are the different types of enzymes and their roles involved in DNA replication?


What is the function of coronary arteries?


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