What is cellulose primarily composed of?

Cellulose is primarily composed of carbohydrates, specifically glucose units linked together to form long chains. These chains create a rigid structure that is essential for the integrity of plant cell walls. As a polysaccharide, cellulose is a significant component of the dietary fiber in many plant-based foods, making it important for digestive health in humans and other animals.

The composition of cellulose is crucial because it consists of beta-glucose monomers that are bonded by beta-1,4-glycosidic linkages. This unique bonding results in a linear, unbranched molecule that allows cellulose to form strong fibrils through hydrogen bonding between adjacent chains, contributing to its role in providing structural support in plants.

Understanding cellulose as a carbohydrate helps clarify its biological function and its importance in both ecological systems and human diets.