How is cellulose different (chemically) than chitin?
Chitin contains nitrogen(in the amine group) while cellulose does not
Cellulose and chitin are both complex carbohydrates that are structurally and functionally important in the cell walls of various organisms. Here are the differences between cellulose and chitin:
1. Molecular Structure:
Cellulose is made up of a linear chain of glucose units, which are linked together by beta-1,4-glycosidic bonds. Chitin, on the other hand, is composed of N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) monomers that are linked together by beta-1,4-glycosidic bonds.
2. Chemical Composition:
Cellulose is a homopolymer of glucose, while chitin is a heteropolymer of modified glucose units containing an amino group.
3. Occurrence:
Cellulose is found primarily in plant cell walls, while chitin is found in the exoskeletons of arthropods, such as insects and crustaceans, as well as in the cell walls of fungi.
4. Function:
Cellulose and chitin both provide strength and rigidity to the structures in which they are found. However, cellulose is known for its high tensile strength and is resistant to chemical degradation, while chitin is strong and flexible.
In summary, the main differences between cellulose and chitin are their molecular structure, chemical composition, occurrence, and function in various living organisms.
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