Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Carbohydrates

Anatomy & Physiology

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Carbohydrates

Previous problemNext problem

1:56 minutes

Problem 4

Textbook Question

What are the primary functions of carbohydrates in cells?a. cell identity, energy storage, raw material source for synthesis, and structureb. catalysis, energy storage, metabolism, and structurec. catalysis, digestion, energy storage, and information storaged. energy storage, information storage, polymerization, and raw material source for synthesis

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the main roles of carbohydrates in biological systems.

Consider the role of carbohydrates in energy storage, such as glycogen in animals and starch in plants.

Think about how carbohydrates contribute to cell identity, such as glycoproteins and glycolipids on cell surfaces.

Recognize that carbohydrates can serve as raw materials for the synthesis of other molecules.

Understand that carbohydrates can also provide structural support, as seen in cellulose in plant cell walls.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above

Video duration:

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Functions of Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates serve several essential functions in cells, including energy storage, providing structural support, and acting as raw materials for synthesis. They are crucial for cellular metabolism, where they can be broken down to release energy. Additionally, carbohydrates play a role in cell recognition and signaling, contributing to cell identity.

Energy Storage

Carbohydrates, particularly in the form of glycogen in animals and starch in plants, are vital for energy storage. When energy is needed, these polysaccharides can be hydrolyzed into glucose, which is then utilized in cellular respiration to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell. This process ensures that cells have a readily available energy source.

Structural Role of Carbohydrates

In addition to energy storage, carbohydrates contribute to the structural integrity of cells. For example, cellulose in plant cell walls provides rigidity and strength, while chitin serves a similar function in the exoskeletons of arthropods. These structural carbohydrates are essential for maintaining the shape and stability of cells and tissues.