Final answer:
Both chitin and cellulose have beta (1→4) glycosidic linkages, which contribute to their structural roles in organisms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The property held in common by chitin and cellulose is that both contain beta (1→4) glycosidic linkages. This type of linkage is responsible for the formation of long polymer chains that give these substances their structural integrity. Chitin is composed of N-acetylglucosamine units, whereas cellulose is composed of glucose units, but both substances have the beta (1→4) linkages in common.
The shared property between chitin and cellulose is the presence of beta (1→4) glycosidic linkages. This specific type of linkage plays a crucial role in forming long polymer chains, contributing to the structural integrity of both chitin and cellulose. Despite the difference in their constituent monosaccharide units, these polysaccharides share the fundamental beta (1→4) glycosidic linkage.
Chitin, a structural polysaccharide found in the exoskeletons of arthropods and fungal cell walls, is composed of N-acetylglucosamine units. Cellulose, a major component of plant cell walls, is composed of glucose units. The commonality in their glycosidic linkages highlights the significance of this specific structural feature in conferring strength and stability to these biologically important polymers, even in the context of their diverse biological roles and functions.