Cellulose
Biology: IB Diploma Higher Level, topic 5.1.4
Cellulose
Cellulose is the major component of cell walls in plants.
Structure of cellulose
- Cellulose is a long chain of beta-glucose.
- Beta-glucose molecules are linked by β 1-4 glycosidic bonds to form linear cellulose chains that are unbranched.
- Microfibrils are strong fibers that are made of many cellulose chains that are held together by hydrogen bonds.
Cellulose
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Function of cellulose
- Cellulose is the most abundant natural polymer.
- The cell walls of plant cells are mostly made of cellulose.
- These cell walls offer structural support because of the strength of the microfibril fibers that they are made of.
Digestion of cellulose
- Cellulose cannot be broken down by human digestive enzymes.
- Herbivores, such as cows and horses, are able to digest plant material rich in cellulose.
Test yourself on Cellulose
Cellulose is a major component of what structure in plants?
Which of the following is NOT a polysaccharide?
Which of the following statements about microfibrils are true?