MDCAT Biology MCQ #945

A student extracts starch from a potato and observes two components. What structural feature distinguishes amylose from amylopectin in this sample?

MDCAT Biology MCQ #945

  1. Question 1

    Q1. A student extracts starch from a potato and observes two components. What structural feature distinguishes amylose from amylopectin in this sample?

    • A) The presence of beta-1,4-glycosidic linkages in amylose
    • B) The unbranched nature of glucose chains in amylose
    • C) The presence of nitrogen atoms in the amylopectin structure
    • D) The solubility of amylopectin in cold water

    Answer: The unbranched nature of glucose chains in amylose

    Explanation: Amylose consists of unbranched chains with alpha-1,4 linkages, while amylopectin is branched. Amylopectin is often confused for being the unbranched form.