Q
QuestionBiochemistry

Is C^6 H^12 O^6 ​ (glucose) a monomer or a polymer?
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Answer

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Step 1:
I'll solve this problem step by step, following the specified LaTeX formatting guidelines:

Step 2:
: Understand the Definition of Monomer and Polymer

- A monomer is a single, simple molecule that can join with other identical molecules to form a polymer - A polymer is a large molecule composed of many repeated subunits (monomers) linked together

Step 3:
: Analyze the Chemical Formula C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}

- This is the molecular formula for glucose - Glucose is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) - It contains: * 6 carbon atoms * 12 hydrogen atoms * 6 oxygen atoms

Step 4:
: Determine Glucose's Classification

- Glucose is a single, individual molecule - It can be used as a building block for larger molecules - Specifically, glucose can polymerize to form more complex carbohydrates like starch or cellulose

Step 5:
: Conclusion

- $$C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}$$ (glucose) is a MONOMER
- It is a basic unit that can link with other glucose molecules to form polymers like glycogen or starch

Final Answer

Glucose (C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}) is a monomer.