# Explain how a disaccharide is formed from two monosaccharides, and describe what happens when a disaccharide is broken down during digestion.

> AQA A-Level Biology (7402) — 3.1.2 Carbohydrates · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Two monosaccharides join together to form a disaccharide
2. A condensation reaction occurs / water is released during the formation
3. A glycosidic bond is formed between the two monosaccharides
4. During digestion, hydrolysis breaks down the disaccharide
5. Water is added / used during hydrolysis to produce monosaccharides

## Key terms

- [monosaccharide](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/monosaccharide)
- [disaccharide](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/disaccharide)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Biology (7402)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-a-disaccharide-is-formed-fad10337) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.