Hexose Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hexose
[ˈhɛksoʊs ]
Definition
biochemistry
Hexose is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) with six carbon atoms in its structure. It plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism and is fundamental for various biological processes, acting as an energy source and a building block for more complex carbohydrates.
Synonyms
monosaccharide, simple sugar, sugar.
Examples of usage
- Glucose is a type of hexose that is vital for energy production in cells.
- Fructose, often found in fruits, is another common hexose.
- Hexoses can be found in various polysaccharides, like starch and cellulose.
- In glycolysis, hexoses are broken down to release energy.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Common hexoses include glucose, fructose, and galactose, which are vital for energy in living organisms.
- Hexoses are crucial for various metabolic pathways, playing major roles in respiration and fermentation.
Health
- Foods containing hexoses, like fruits and honey, provide quick energy for athletes and active individuals.
- Excessive intake of certain hexoses, especially fructose, has been linked to health issues like obesity and diabetes.
Technology
- Hexoses can be synthesized in labs and are used in biochemical research to study energy production and metabolism.
- They are also important in the food industry, used as sweeteners or preservatives due to their solubility and stability.
Pop Culture
- The popularity of sweetened beverages often comes from added hexoses, affecting dietary habits and cultural consumption of sugar.
- Hexoses have been referenced in various TV shows and movies depicting characters bonding over sweets and treats.
Origin of 'hexose'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'hexose' comes from the Greek word 'hex' meaning 'six', and the suffix '-ose', which is often used for sugars.
- Hexoses were first identified in the 19th century when scientists began to classify different types of sugars.
The term 'hexose' originates from the Greek word 'hex', meaning 'six', and the suffix '-ose', which is commonly used in chemistry to denote sugars. The identification of hexoses can be traced back to the late 19th century, when various sugars were being isolated and characterized by chemists. Indeed, glucose was first isolated by the German chemist Andreas Marggraf in 1747, but the full understanding of its structure and classification alongside other hexoses came later with advancements in organic chemistry. Today, hexoses are not only recognized for their biological significance in living organisms but also play vital roles in various industrial processes, including the production of biofuels and fermentation processes in food production.