Amylose is a type of carbohydrate that is commonly found in plants. It is a linear polymer made up of glucose units that are linked together by alpha-1,4-glycosidic bonds. This molecule is an important source of energy for both humans and animals, and it is also used in a variety of industrial applications.
Definitions
Amylose is defined as a type of polysaccharide that is composed of glucose units linked together by alpha-1,4-glycosidic bonds. It is a linear molecule that is typically found in plants, where it serves as a source of energy.
Origin
The word “amylose” comes from the Greek words “amylon” and “ose,” which mean “starch” and “sugar,” respectively. The term was first used in the early 20th century to describe the linear form of starch, which was distinguished from the branched form known as amylopectin.
Meaning in different dictionaries
- Merriam-Webster: a crystallizable polysaccharide that is the principal constituent of starch and is a linear polymer of glucose units linked by alpha-1,4-glycosidic bonds.
- Oxford English Dictionary: a linear polymer of glucose that is a constituent of starch and is used in various industrial applications.
- Dictionary.com: a type of carbohydrate found in plants that is composed of glucose units linked by alpha-1,4-glycosidic bonds.
Associations
Amylose is often associated with starch, which is a complex carbohydrate that is found in many foods, including potatoes, rice, and bread. It is also associated with glycogen, which is a similar molecule that is found in animals and serves as a storage form of glucose.
Synonyms
- Starch.
- Polysaccharide.
- Glucose polymer.
Antonyms
- Lipid.
- Protein.
- Nucleic acid.
The same root words
There are no other words that share the same root words as amylose.
Example Sentences
- The amylose content of a particular starch can affect its properties, such as its viscosity and gelatinization temperature.
- Some studies suggest that diets high in amylose may have health benefits, such as improving insulin sensitivity and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Amylose is used in a variety of industrial applications, such as in the production of biodegradable plastics and adhesives.