Carbohydrates
A) form only ring structures.
B) form only linear structures.
C) may interconvert between ring and linear structures.
D) contain both ring and linear portions within the same molecule.
E) are all structural isomers of each other.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Carbohydrates commonly exist in both ring and linear forms, which can interconvert with each other. The conversion between these forms is a reversible process that depends on the conditions in which the carbohydrates are present (e.g., pH, temperature, solvent). Therefore, carbohydrates do not form only ring or linear structures, but rather have the ability to exist in both forms.