Definition & Structure
What elements make up carbohydrates?
Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
What are the small units of carbohydrates called?
Monosaccharides.
What is the main function of carbohydrates?
To provide quick energy.
Name one food that is high in carbohydrates.
Bread.
What group of nutrients do carbohydrates belong to?
Macronutrients.
What does the word “carbohydrate” mean?
It means “carbon and water.”
Name one simple sugar.
Glucose.
What organ depends on glucose to work properly?
The brain.
Which fruit is a good source of carbohydrates?
Banana or apple.
Why do athletes need more carbohydrates?
Because they use more energy.
What type of nutrient are carbohydrates?
They are organic compounds and one of the main sources of energ
What are two types of carbohydrates?
Simple and complex.
How do carbohydrates help plants?
They make cellulose in the cell walls for structure.
What type of carbohydrate is found in milk?
Natural sugar (lactose).
Which vitamin helps use carbohydrates efficiently?
Vitamin C helps the body use nutrients efficiently.
What is the general formula for carbohydrates?
CH₂O (carbon + water).
What are complex carbohydrates called?
Polysaccharides.
What happens if the body doesn’t get enough carbohydrates?
You feel tired and weak because there’s less energy.
Give an example of a starchy vegetable.
Potatoes or corn.
What type of molecule do carbohydrates provide energy for?
For every cell in the body.
What do carbohydrates break down into in the body?
Into glucose, which provides energy to cells.
What is starch an example of?
A complex carbohydrate.
What is one function of stored carbohydrates?
To provide energy later when food isn’t available.
Which carbohydrate-rich foods are also sweet?
Honey, sweets, fruits.
What is the nickname for glucose in biology?
“The fuel of life.”