Final answer:
Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates that are long chains of monosaccharides linked by glycosidic bonds, with notable examples like starch and cellulose serving crucial biological roles in energy storage and structural functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Polysaccharides are carbohydrates formed from linking individual sugars into a long chain of monosaccharides. These monosaccharide monomers are linked together by glycosidic bonds. Polysaccharides, also known as glycans, may be structured into straight or branched chains and can be composed of various types of monosaccharides with molecular weights that can exceed 100,000 daltons.
Important examples of polysaccharides include starch, glycogen, cellulose, and chitin. Starch, for instance, is a staple in most human diets and is found in foods such as corn, potatoes, rice, and wheat, acting as the main form of energy storage in plants. It is ultimately hydrolyzed into glucose, which our bodies use for energy.