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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes glycogen?
A
A disaccharide composed of glucose and galactose
B
A linear polymer of fructose found in plant cell walls
C
A highly branched polysaccharide that serves as the main storage form of glucose in animals
D
A lipid molecule used for long-term energy storage in animals
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the term 'glycogen' and its role in biochemistry. Glycogen is a polysaccharide, meaning it is a carbohydrate composed of many monosaccharide units (glucose) linked together.
Step 2: Recall the structural characteristics of glycogen. Glycogen is highly branched, which allows for rapid mobilization of glucose when energy is needed. This branching is achieved through α-1,4-glycosidic bonds in the linear chains and α-1,6-glycosidic bonds at the branch points.
Step 3: Identify the function of glycogen. Glycogen serves as the main storage form of glucose in animals, particularly in the liver and muscle tissues. It is broken down into glucose when the body requires energy.
Step 4: Compare glycogen to the other options provided. Glycogen is not a disaccharide (like glucose and galactose), nor is it a linear polymer of fructose (which describes cellulose in plants). It is also not a lipid molecule, as lipids are used for long-term energy storage, whereas glycogen is for short-term energy storage.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct description of glycogen is: 'A highly branched polysaccharide that serves as the main storage form of glucose in animals.' This matches its biochemical structure and function.