178. Given the molecular structure of glucose, the molecular formula and molecular weight of
maltose will be:
A. 𝐶12𝐻24𝑂12, 360 Daltons
B. 𝐶12𝐻24𝑂12, 460 Daltons
C. 𝐶12𝐻22𝑂11, 342 Daltons
D. 𝐶12𝐻22𝑂11, 490 Daltons

Introduction

Maltose is a disaccharide formed by the condensation of two glucose molecules. It is an important sugar found in various foods and is also involved in the breakdown of starch. In this article, we will discuss the molecular formula and molecular weight of maltose, derived from its molecular structure.

Molecular Structure of Maltose

Maltose consists of two glucose units joined by an α-1,4-glycosidic bond. The molecular structure of glucose includes six carbon atoms (C6), twelve hydrogen atoms (H12), and six oxygen atoms (O6) in a specific arrangement. When two glucose molecules link to form maltose, one water molecule (H2O) is released due to the condensation reaction.

Molecular Formula of Maltose

The molecular formula of maltose can be derived by combining the formulas of two glucose molecules and subtracting the water molecule released during the condensation reaction. The molecular formula for glucose is C6H12O6.

• Two glucose molecules: C12H24O12

• Subtract the water molecule (H2O, which is C1H2O1):

C12H24O12 – H2O = C12H22O11

Thus, the molecular formula of maltose is C12H22O11.

Molecular Weight of Maltose

To calculate the molecular weight of maltose, we sum the atomic weights of each element in the formula C12H22O11.

• Carbon (C): 12 × 12.01 = 144.12 g/mol

• Hydrogen (H): 22 × 1.008 = 22.18 g/mol

• Oxygen (O): 11 × 16.00 = 176.00 g/mol

Total molecular weight = 144.12 + 22.18 + 176.00 = 342.30 g/mol

Therefore, the molecular weight of maltose is approximately 342 Daltons.

Conclusion

The molecular formula and molecular weight of maltose are:

C12H22O11, 342 Daltons

So, the correct answer is:

C. C12H22O11, 342 Daltons