Texas A&M University (TAMU) BIOL111 Introductory Biology I Exam 1 Practice Exam

Amylose is primarily characterized by its linear structure made up of glucose monomers. It is a polysaccharide and a component of starch, which serves as an energy storage molecule in plants. The glucose units in amylose are linked together by α-1,4-glycosidic bonds, forming a long chain that is unbranched. This characteristic structure contributes to the overall properties of amylose, such as its ability to form helical shapes and its solubility in water.

In contrast, other options describe different configurations and compositions that do not accurately reflect amylose's structure. For instance, a branched configuration of glucose monomers accurately describes amylopectin, another component of starch. A mixture of glucose and fructose would refer to a different carbohydrate composition, such as sucrose, which is a disaccharide. Lastly, a double sugar formed by two monosaccharides specifically refers to disaccharides, which do not apply to amylose's structure. Therefore, the linear configuration of glucose monomers is what correctly defines amylose.