Question

State three similarities and three differences between cellulose and collagen

Answer 1

`Similarities`

• 1. Polymer Structure: Both cellulose and collagen are biological polymers, composed of repeating units—glucose in cellulose and amino acids in collagen.
• 2. Structural Role:Both contribute to the structural integrity of organisms; cellulose forms plant cell walls, while collagen is a major component of connective tissues in animals.
• 3. Biodegradability:Both cellulose and collagen are biodegradable, meaning they can be broken down by biological processes.

`Differences`

• 1. Monomer Composition: Cellulose is composed of glucose monomers linked by β-1,4-glycosidic bonds, while collagen is made up of amino acid monomers, predominantly glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.
• 2. Function and Location: Cellulose provides rigidity and support in plant cell walls, aiding in plant structure, while collagen imparts flexibility and strength to connective tissues in animals, such as skin, tendons, and bones.
• 3. Chemical Nature: Cellulose is a polysaccharide, a type of carbohydrate, while collagen is a fibrous protein. This distinction reflects their different roles and functions in biological systems ..

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