# Explain how the structure of amylose differs from that of amylopectin, and suggest one functional consequence of each structural difference identified.

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

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Amylose is an unbranched/linear chain, whereas amylopectin is highly branched
2. Amylose forms a helical/coiled secondary structure due to its linearity, allowing it to pack compactly
3. Amylopectin has α-1,6-glycosidic bonds at branch points (in addition to α-1,4-glycosidic bonds in the chains), whereas amylose has only α-1,4-glycosidic bonds
4. The many free ends created by branching in amylopectin allow rapid enzymatic hydrolysis / faster release of glucose when energy is needed

## 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 Standard 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-structure-of-amylose-e62331db) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.