IB Biology SL B1.1.6 Cellulose Structure and Function Questions
Practise IB Biology SL B1.1.6 by tracing how beta-glucose joined by 1,4 bonds alternates to form straight, unbranched chains, then hydrogen-bonded fibres that reinforce plant cell walls.
Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Biology SL
Level
SL
Exam points
Describe how beta-glucose monomers in alternating orientations form cellulose chains with 1,4 glycosidic bonds.
Explain how hydrogen bonds assemble chains into fibres that strengthen plant cell walls.
IB Biology SL B1.1.6 Cellulose Structure and Function Questions question 1
[Maximum number: 5]
Question (a)
(a)
Label the area where cellulose is found in the micrograph of a plant cell.
[ 1 ]
label placed anywhere along outside perimeter/cell wall of plant cell
Question (b)
(b)
Cellulose is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth. Describe the structure of cellulose.
[ 3 ]
a
unbranched/straight chain of glucose molecules OR unbranched/straight-chain polysaccharide;
b
formed of beta glucose;
c
formed by condensation reactions/glycosidic bonds OR 1, 4 linkage;
d
hydrogen bonds form between cellulose chains;
e
form microfibrils;
Question (c)
(c)
Outline one reason for humans being unable to digest cellulose.