How does the structure of cellulose relates to the molecules function?

Answer 1

Cellulose has beta C1-C4 bonds between the glucose molecules - i.e. carbon 1 of 1 molecule bonds to carbon 4 of another. Animals don't produce the enzymes to break down cellulose but cows, rabbits etc. can only break it down due to symbiotic bacteria in their intestinal tract which possess the required enzymes to breakdown cellulose. In plants, cellulose is a strong supporting material because hydroxyl groups project out from each chain, forming hydrogen bonds with neighbouring chains - creating a rigid cross-linking between the chains. It is fully permeable to water and solutes which means it can allow them to move in and out of cells.

Answer 2

Cellulose is formed from many β-glucose molecules that form long chains of paralell microfibrils and many hydrogen bonds form between these. The long straight chain provides structural support for plant cell walls and therefore structure for plants. It is freely permeable, allowing water and solute to leave cells.

Answer 3

cellulose has a big chain in neat rows which allows it to support the plant well

Answer 4

how does cellulose molecules relate to the molecules function