Answer:
The difference in the number of atoms in maltose is due to its molecular structure. Maltose is a disaccharide composed of two glucose molecules linked together through a glycosidic bond. Each glucose molecule consists of 6 carbon atoms, 12 hydrogen atoms, and 6 oxygen atoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Therefore, the total number of atoms in maltose is the sum of the atoms in two glucose molecules. This results in a total of 12 carbon atoms, 24 hydrogen atoms, and 12 oxygen atoms.
The reason for this difference in the number of atoms is the formation of the glycosidic bond. When two glucose molecules combine to form maltose, a condensation reaction occurs, leading to the elimination of a water molecule. This process results in the formation of a covalent bond between the two glucose molecules, reducing the number of oxygen and hydrogen atoms compared to the individual glucose molecules.
Overall, the difference in the number of atoms in maltose compared to the individual glucose molecules is a result of the chemical reaction that forms the disaccharide bond.