# Explain how the structural differences between amylose and amylopectin affect the rate at which glucose is released during the digestion of starch.

> IB DP Biology Higher Level (2023 syllabus) — B1.1 Carbohydrates and lipids · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Amylopectin is branched whereas amylose is unbranched (linear/helical)
2. Branching creates more non-reducing / free ends exposed to amylase / digestive enzymes
3. Therefore amylopectin is digested / hydrolysed more rapidly than amylose, releasing glucose faster
4. Amylose's helical conformation reduces accessibility of the glycosidic bonds to amylase, further slowing its digestion

## Key terms

- [amylose](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/amylose)
- [amylopectin](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/amylopectin)

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Biology Higher Level (2023 syllabus)](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-the-structural-differences-between-49b9d6d5) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.