Carbohydrates in organic many small molecule that is made up of carbon hydrogen oxygen

**Carbohydrates: An Overview**

Carbohydrates are one of the three main macronutrients, along with proteins and fats. They are essential for providing energy to the body and are found in a wide variety of foods. Carbohydrates are made up of three elements: carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. These elements combine in specific ratios to form different types of carbohydrates.

**Monosaccharides: The Building Blocks**

The basic unit of carbohydrates is a monosaccharide, which is a simple sugar. Monosaccharides are the smallest and simplest form of carbohydrates and cannot be broken down further by hydrolysis. The most common monosaccharides include glucose, fructose, and galactose.

**Disaccharides: Two Monosaccharides Joined Together**

Disaccharides are formed when two monosaccharides join together through a condensation reaction, resulting in the formation of a glycosidic bond. This bond can be broken through hydrolysis. Some examples of disaccharides include sucrose, lactose, and maltose.

**Polysaccharides: Complex Carbohydrate Structures**

Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates made up of long chains of monosaccharides. These chains can be branched or unbranched, and the specific arrangement of monosaccharides determines the properties and functions of different polysaccharides.

1. **Starch:** Starch is the main storage form of carbohydrates in plants. It is composed of glucose units and can be found in foods such as potatoes, rice, and bread. Starch is an important source of energy for humans.

2. **Glycogen:** Glycogen is the storage form of carbohydrates in animals, including humans. It is mainly stored in the liver and muscles. Similar to starch, glycogen is composed of glucose units and serves as a readily available source of energy.

3. **Cellulose:** Cellulose is a structural polysaccharide found in the cell walls of plants. Humans lack the enzyme necessary to digest cellulose, but it provides dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes bowel regularity.

4. **Chitin:** Chitin is a polysaccharide found in the exoskeletons of insects and the cell walls of fungi. It provides structural support and protection.

**Conclusion**

Carbohydrates are vital for providing energy to the body and are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are made up of monosaccharides, which can join together to form disaccharides and further combine to create complex polysaccharides. Understanding the different types of carbohydrates and their functions is crucial for maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet.