Carbohydrates & Classification

General Formula: Most carbohydrates satisfy $$\text{C}_n(\text{H}_2\text{O})_m$$ (e.g., Glucose $$\text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6$$), though exceptions exist (e.g., Rhamnose: $$\text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_5$$ is a sugar; Acetic Acid: $$\text{C}_2\text{H}_4\text{O}_2$$ is not).

• Classification by Hydrolysis:
  • Monosaccharides: Cannot be hydrolyzed further (e.g., Glucose, Fructose, Ribose).
  • Oligosaccharides: Yield $$2\text{--}10$$ monosaccharide units on hydrolysis (e.g., Sucrose, Maltose, Lactose).
  • Polysaccharides: Yield a large number ($$>10$$) of monosaccharide units (e.g., Starch, Cellulose, Glycogen).
• Aldoses vs. Ketoses:
  • Aldoses: Contain an aldehyde functional group ($$\text{--CHO}$$).
  • Ketoses: Contain a ketone functional group ($$\text{--C=O}$$).