1. Cellulose, a linear polysaccharide, is a major structural component in plant cell walls. Comprising repeating glucose units linked by β-1,4-glycosidic bonds, cellulose forms long, unbranched chains. The β-linkages create a straight and rigid structure, allowing cellulose molecules to align in parallRead more

    Cellulose, a linear polysaccharide, is a major structural component in plant cell walls. Comprising repeating glucose units linked by β-1,4-glycosidic bonds, cellulose forms long, unbranched chains. The β-linkages create a straight and rigid structure, allowing cellulose molecules to align in parallel, forming strong, insoluble fibers. This characteristic enhances its role in providing structural support to plant cells. Cellulose is resistant to digestion by most animals due to the lack of enzymes capable of breaking β-bonds. Instead, certain microorganisms and herbivores possess specialized enzymes, like cellulases, enabling them to extract energy from cellulose.

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  2. Carbohydrates serve as a primary energy source in both plants and animals, fueling cellular processes. In plants, they contribute to structural components like cellulose. In animals, carbohydrates, such as glycogen and glucose, are crucial for energy storage and metabolic functions. In Ayurvedic medRead more

    Carbohydrates serve as a primary energy source in both plants and animals, fueling cellular processes. In plants, they contribute to structural components like cellulose. In animals, carbohydrates, such as glycogen and glucose, are crucial for energy storage and metabolic functions. In Ayurvedic medicine, honey has been traditionally utilized for its therapeutic properties. It is considered a natural sweetener with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Honey’s use in Ayurveda extends to promoting digestion, wound healing, and enhancing overall well-being, aligning with its diverse nutritional profile and bioactive compounds that contribute to its medicinal value.

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  3. In plants, carbohydrates serve as storage molecules primarily in the form of starch, accumulating in structures like roots and seeds. Animals store carbohydrates as glycogen in the liver and muscles. Both starch and glycogen can be broken down into glucose to provide energy during metabolic processeRead more

    In plants, carbohydrates serve as storage molecules primarily in the form of starch, accumulating in structures like roots and seeds. Animals store carbohydrates as glycogen in the liver and muscles. Both starch and glycogen can be broken down into glucose to provide energy during metabolic processes. Industrially, carbohydrates find applications in diverse sectors. Starch is used in food production, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. Cellulose is utilized for paper and textile manufacturing. Additionally, carbohydrates like xanthan gum and carrageenan have applications in the food industry as thickeners and stabilizers, showcasing the versatility of carbohydrates in various industrial processes.

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  4. Proteins play a crucial role in living systems, serving as structural components, enzymes, transporters, and signaling molecules. They are essential for cell function, growth, and repair. Dietary proteins provide amino acids, the building blocks for protein synthesis in the body. Chief sources of diRead more

    Proteins play a crucial role in living systems, serving as structural components, enzymes, transporters, and signaling molecules. They are essential for cell function, growth, and repair. Dietary proteins provide amino acids, the building blocks for protein synthesis in the body. Chief sources of dietary proteins include animal products like meat, fish, dairy, and eggs, which provide complete proteins with all essential amino acids. Plant sources like beans, legumes, nuts, and grains offer incomplete proteins but can be combined to meet amino acid requirements. A balanced protein intake is vital for maintaining health and supporting the diverse functions of the body.

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  5. Amino acids are classified based on the relative position of the amino group and carboxyl group on the alpha carbon atom. In α-amino acids, the amino and carboxyl groups are attached to the same carbon, forming the central alpha carbon. This class includes the building blocks of proteins. On hydrolyRead more

    Amino acids are classified based on the relative position of the amino group and carboxyl group on the alpha carbon atom. In α-amino acids, the amino and carboxyl groups are attached to the same carbon, forming the central alpha carbon. This class includes the building blocks of proteins. On hydrolysis of proteins, only α-amino acids are obtained because peptide bonds, linking amino acids in proteins, are specifically cleaved between the alpha carbon and nitrogen, releasing individual α-amino acids. Other amino acids, like β or γ, are not commonly found in proteins and do not result from typical protein hydrolysis.

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