Hexose <Direct Link>

. They are the primary energy source for most living organisms and serve as fundamental building blocks for larger carbohydrates like starch and cellulose.

Hexoses are primarily classified by their functional groups: : Contain an aldehyde group ( −CHOnegative cap C cap H cap O ) at the end of the carbon chain. hexose

: The most abundant sugar in nature and the main fuel for cellular respiration. : The most abundant sugar in nature and

A is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) containing six carbon atoms, with the general chemical formula Structural Features Hexoses can shift between two main

: Commonly found in fruits and honey; it is sweeter than glucose and follows a different metabolic pathway in the liver. 2. Structural Features Hexoses can shift between two main structural forms:

: Found in dairy products; it must be converted to glucose in the liver to be metabolized. Ketohexoses : Contain a ketone group ( ), typically at the second carbon position.

A Climber's Guide to Carbohydrates: Part I - Climbing Nutrition