Answer "Monosaccharides: Why 3 Carbon Atoms?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of monosaccharides and why they typically have at least three carbon atoms. It is noted that compounds with only two carbons, such as glycolaldehyde, may have a sugar-like structure but are not considered true sugars due to their elemental ratio. The possibility of a stable cyclic form being necessary for a monosaccharide is also mentioned.
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challenge question!

whay does not monossacharides come less than three carbon atoms?? (I mean they just come triose to hexose)>>thnk you
 
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the closest thing to a 'diose' wold be HOCCHO, or a hydroxyl group on one carbon and an aldehyde on the other.

it is very sugar-like, but isn't considered a sugar because the empirical ratio of elements can't be quite right when there are only 2 carbons.
 
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Galap said:
the closest thing to a 'diose' wold be HOCCHO, or a hydroxyl group on one carbon and an aldehyde on the other.

it is very sugar-like, but isn't considered a sugar because the empirical ratio of elements can't be quite right when there are only 2 carbons.

Note that the compound you've written out is not an hydroxyaldehyde, rather a dialdehyde (glyoxal).

There is nothing wrong with Gylcolaldehyde OHCCH2OH [or (CH2O)2 in "carbo'hydrate'" terms] (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Glycolaldehyde&oldid=392458101), which suggests you may need a stable cyclic form to be a proper monosaccharide. Perhaps http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Monosaccharide&oldid=391746084 can help?
 
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FAQ: Answer "Monosaccharides: Why 3 Carbon Atoms?

What are monosaccharides?

Monosaccharides are simple sugars that cannot be broken down into smaller units. They are the building blocks of carbohydrates and are the most basic form of sugar.

Why do monosaccharides have 3 carbon atoms?

Monosaccharides have 3 carbon atoms because they are the simplest form of carbohydrates. The number of carbon atoms in a monosaccharide can range from 3 to 7, with 3 being the smallest and simplest form.

Can monosaccharides be found in nature?

Yes, monosaccharides can be found in nature. They are commonly found in fruits, vegetables, and honey.

How are monosaccharides different from other types of sugars?

Monosaccharides are different from other types of sugars because they are the smallest and simplest form. Other types of sugars, such as disaccharides and polysaccharides, are made up of multiple monosaccharides bonded together.

What is the function of monosaccharides in the body?

Monosaccharides serve as a source of energy for the body. They are broken down during digestion and converted into glucose, which is used by cells for energy. They also play a role in the structure of DNA and RNA.

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