Tag: Biological polymers

Cellulose is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth, making up a significant portion of plant biomass. This complex carbohydrate, or polysaccharide, is indeed composed entirely of glucose units, though its unique structural arrangement gives it very different properties from other glucose-based polymers like starch.

Mucilage is a sticky, gelatinous substance produced by plants, algae, and some microorganisms to retain water and aid in seed germination. Despite its similar-sounding name and texture, mucilage is fundamentally different from mucus, the slimy protective fluid found in animals. Understanding the distinction is crucial for appreciating the diverse roles these two biopolymers play in nature.