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BIO NMDCAT Carbohydrates
nmdcat.online June 27, 2026

The function of cellulose as a structural polysaccharide in plant cell walls is directly related to its

A. Highly branched, amorphous structure
B. Linear chains of glucose linked by β-1,4 bonds, forming strong microfibrils via inter-chain hydrogen bonds
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C. High solubility in water, allowing it to form a gel matrix
D. Ability to be easily hydrolyzed by a wide range of digestive enzymes

📝 Explanation

Cellulose is a linear, unbranched homopolymer of glucose. The β-1,4 linkage causes the chain to be straight. Adjacent chains align and form extensive inter-chain hydrogen bonds, creating rigid, high-tensile-strength microfibrils that provide structural integrity to the cell wall.

📖 Additional Information

  • Highly branched, amorphous structure
  • Linear chains of glucose linked by β-1,4 bonds, forming strong microfibrils via inter-chain hydrogen bonds
  • High solubility in water, allowing it to form a gel matrix
  • Ability to be easily hydrolyzed by a wide range of digestive enzymes

Cellulose is a linear, unbranched homopolymer of glucose. The β-1,4 linkage causes the chain to be straight. Adjacent chains align and form extensive inter-chain hydrogen bonds, creating rigid, high-tensile-strength microfibrils that provide structural integrity to the cell wall.

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