Definition of Disaccharide



Disaccharide is a molecule which is made by the combination of two monosaccharides. The examples of disaccharides include sucrose and lactose which are formed by fructose and glucose, and glucose and galactose respectively. These disaccharides chemical formula is C12H22O11.

 


These disaccharides are formed as a result of a dehydration reaction (the two simple sugars are fused together through a glycosidic bond and a molecule of water is removed). These are found in several foods and are used as sweeteners e.g sucrose. These disaccharides when breaking down, they become a source of energy that is utilized by the organisms.


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