Final answer:
Polysaccharides attached to glycoproteins and glycolipids serve the function of cell recognition. They enable cell-to-cell communication, immune response, and various biological processes. Examples of polysaccharides involved in energy storage include starch and glycogen, while cellulose provides structural support in cell walls.
Step-by-step explanation:
Polysaccharides: Energy Storage and Cell Structure
Polysaccharides serve various functions in biology, including energy storage and cell structure. Some examples of polysaccharides involved in energy storage are starch and glycogen. Starch is the main form of energy storage in plants, while glycogen serves as a highly branched storage polysaccharide in animals and bacteria. These polysaccharides consist of glucose monomers linked together, and the structure of the polysaccharide determines its primary function as an energy storage molecule. The branching and arrangement of glucose units enable the efficient storage and release of energy.
On the other hand, cellulose is a polysaccharide that provides cell structure. It forms the structural component of cell walls in green plants. Cellulose consists of a linear chain of glucose molecules linked together, forming a sturdy and rigid structure that gives plants their shape and support. The arrangement of glucose units in cellulose is different from those in starch and glycogen, resulting in its unique function as a structural polysaccharide.
In conclusion, polysaccharides attached to glycoproteins and glycolipids primarily serve the function of cell recognition, enabling communication and interaction between cells. They play a crucial role in cell-to-cell signaling, immune response, and various biological processes.