1.1.7 Disaccharides

Disaccharides are carbohydrates formed when two monosaccharides (simple sugars) join together through a condensation reaction, which produces a molecule of water. The bond that holds the two monosaccharides together is called a glycosidic bond.

During this process, a 1,4 glycosidic bond is typically formed between the carbon 1 of one monosaccharide and the carbon 4 of another.

Common Disaccharides:

Maltose: Formed by the condensation of two glucose molecules. This disaccharide is commonly found in germinating seeds and is a product of starch breakdown.
Sucrose: Created by the condensation of glucose and fructose. Sucrose is commonly known as table sugar and is widely found in plants.
Lactose: Formed by the condensation of glucose and galactose. It is found in milk and dairy products.

infoNote

These disaccharides can be broken down into their monosaccharide components through hydrolysis, where water is added to reverse the reaction and break the glycosidic bond. This process is essential in digestion, allowing the body to absorb the simpler sugars for energy.

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