Chitin is a polysaccharide - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 2
Chitin is a polysaccharide. The chitin monomer is a β-glucose molecule with one OH group replaced by an NHCOCH₃ group. NHCOCH₃ can be represented by N(Ac).
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Worked Solution & Example Answer:Chitin is a polysaccharide - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 1
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The monomers of chitin and cellulose are both glucose-based structures. In chitin, the glucose is a β-glucose, and this similarity in the monosaccharide unit forms the basis of their polymeric nature.
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Both chitin and cellulose are joined by glycosidic bonds. This type of bond connects individual monomers, allowing the formation of long polymer chains which provide structural support.
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In their structure, both chitin and cellulose can form straight unbranched chains. This linear arrangement is crucial as it allows for strong hydrogen bonding between neighboring chains, contributing to their strength and rigidity.
