Starch is found only in animals, while cellulose is found only in plants.
Verified step by step guidance
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Understand the structural composition of starch and cellulose: Both starch and cellulose are polysaccharides composed of glucose units, but their structural differences arise from the type of glycosidic bonds connecting these glucose units.
Learn about glycosidic bonds: Glycosidic bonds are covalent bonds that link monosaccharides together. In starch, the glucose units are connected by α(1→4) glycosidic bonds, whereas in cellulose, the glucose units are connected by β(1→4) glycosidic bonds.
Explore the implications of α and β glycosidic bonds: The α(1→4) glycosidic bonds in starch result in a structure that is more flexible and can form helical shapes, making it suitable for energy storage. On the other hand, the β(1→4) glycosidic bonds in cellulose create a rigid, linear structure that is ideal for providing structural support in plant cell walls.
Clarify the branching aspect: Starch can exist in two forms—amylose (linear) and amylopectin (branched). Cellulose, however, is strictly linear due to its β(1→4) glycosidic bonds.
Conclude the primary structural difference: The key distinction lies in the type of glycosidic bonds—starch contains α(1→4) glycosidic bonds, while cellulose contains β(1→4) glycosidic bonds. This difference affects their physical properties and biological roles.