A Level Biology Practice Exam

What type of molecule are carbohydrates classified as?

1. Proteins

2. Polymers

3. Nucleic acids

4. Lipids

The correct answer is: Polymers

Carbohydrates are indeed classified as polymers, which are large molecules made up of repeating units called monomers. In the case of carbohydrates, the monomers are simple sugars or monosaccharides, such as glucose. When these monosaccharides link together through glycosidic bonds, they form larger carbohydrate structures, such as disaccharides (like sucrose and lactose) and polysaccharides (such as starch, glycogen, and cellulose). This classification as polymers is significant because it reflects the structure and function of carbohydrates within biological systems. The varying lengths and branching of the polymer chains influence how carbohydrates serve as energy sources, structural components, and participate in cell signaling processes. Recognizing carbohydrates as polymers aids in understanding their diversity and roles in living organisms.