Entity: GALACTOSE
Galactose is a white, water-soluble monosaccharide found in lactose, with the chemical formula C6H12O6. It is less sweet and less soluble than glucose, classified as a reducing hexose and an aldohexose. Galactose is a common sugar that plays a significant role in various biological processes.
GALACTOSE
Etymology
The term 'galactose' is derived from 'galacto-' meaning milk and '-ose' indicating a sugar.
Definition
Galactose is a white, water-soluble monosaccharide with the chemical formula C6H12O6. It is less sweet and less soluble than glucose, found in lactose and classified as a reducing hexose and an aldohexose.
Historical Context
Galactose was first discovered in milk sugar and has since been recognized for its role in various biological processes, including energy metabolism and glycoprotein synthesis.
Cultural Significance
Galactose is commonly found in dairy products and is essential for lactose digestion in humans. It also serves as a building block for complex carbohydrates in the body.
Related Concepts
Galactose is closely related to glucose and fructose, forming the three most common natural monosaccharides with the same chemical formula C6H12O6.
See Also
A sugar C6H12O6 less soluble and less sweet than glucose, found in lactose and classified as a reducing hexose and an aldohexose.