Question

The absence of which structure in cellulose does not allow it to hold iodine molecules?

(a) Branches

(b) Left non-reducing end

(c) Right reducing end

(d) Helix

The question was asked in an internship interview.

Origin of the question is Biomolecules in portion Biomolecules of Biology – Class 11

Answer 1

The correct choice is (d) Helix

The explanation: Iodine molecules are held in helices of polysaccharide structures such as starch. The secondary structure of starch is helical and can hence hold starch. Cellulose has a linear structure and thus, cannot hold iodine molecules.