Biochemistry : Aldoses and Ketoses

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Biochemistry

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Carbohydrate Structures And Functions

What is an aldotriose?

Possible Answers:

A disaccharide that contains an aldehyde and three carbons

A disaccharide that contains three aldehydes and one carbon

A monosaccharide that contains three aldehydes and one carbon

A monosaccharide that contains both an aldehyde and three carbons

Correct answer:

A monosaccharide that contains both an aldehyde and three carbons

Explanation:

Aldotrioses are monosaccharides that contain both an aldehyde (an aldose) and three carbons (a triose). Knowing the definition of the word, and the breakdown of parts of the word, can help you recognize the molecule. The simplest aldotriose is glyceraldehyde.

A related concept involves ketotrioses, which are monosaccharides that contain both a ketone (a ketose) and three carbonds (a triose). Dihydroxyacetone is an example of a ketotriose.

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