Chapter 24.2, Problem 8LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The general formula of carbohydrates is to be represented.

Concept introduction: Carbohydrates are carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen-based monomers of ketones and aldehydes, including many hydroxyl groups.

Answer to Problem 8LC

The general formula of carbohydrates is as follows:

  ${\text{C}}_n{\left({\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}\right)}_n$

Explanation of Solution

The general formula of carbohydrates is as follows:

  ${\text{C}}_n{\left({\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}\right)}_n$

They seem like carbon hydrates in chemical formulae, although they are not. This is the origin of the term "carbohydrate.".

Conclusion

The general formula of carbohydrates is as follows:

  ${\text{C}}_n{\left({\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}\right)}_n$