AP Biology · Unit 1: Chemistry of Life
1.4 Carbohydrates
In short
You must understand that monosaccharides (simple sugars) act as the monomers for polysaccharides (complex carbohydrates). You need to know that these monomers are joined by covalent bonds to form polymers, and that these resulting complex carbohydrates can be either linear or branched in structure.
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What else do you need to know about Carbohydrates?
Illustrative examples that can be used include cellulose, starch, and glycogen. Crucially, you do not need to memorize the molecular structure of specific carbohydrate polymers, as this is explicitly stated to be beyond the scope of the AP Exam.
Can you do these?
- I can explain that monosaccharides are connected by covalent bonds to form linear or branched polysaccharides.
How is Carbohydrates tested on the exam?
This topic is paired with the Science Practice 1.A: 'Describe biological concepts and processes' (Concept Explanation). The instructional focus should be on describing the relationship between the structure and function of these macromolecules. On the exam, you frequently struggle with the precise use of language and similar terms; examiners expect accurate and appropriate terminology, particularly in free-response questions.
Free practice questions with full explanations, and instant marking of your free-response answers.
Carbohydrates: common questions
What do you need to know about Carbohydrates for AP Biology?
You must understand that monosaccharides (simple sugars) act as the monomers for polysaccharides (complex carbohydrates). You need to know that these monomers are joined by covalent bonds to form polymers, and that these resulting complex carbohydrates can be either linear or branched in structure.
How is Carbohydrates tested on the AP Biology exam?
This topic is paired with the Science Practice 1.A: 'Describe biological concepts and processes' (Concept Explanation). The instructional focus should be on describing the relationship between the structure and function of these macromolecules.
How do I know I have mastered Carbohydrates?
Check you can do each of these: explain that monosaccharides are connected by covalent bonds to form linear or branched polysaccharides.
Where does Carbohydrates fit in AP Biology?
Carbohydrates is topic 1.4 in Unit 1: Chemistry of Life of AP Biology.
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