# Explain how the structure of glycogen makes it well suited to its function as an energy storage molecule in animal cells.

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

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Glycogen is a polysaccharide made of many glucose monomers joined by glycosidic bonds, storing a large amount of chemical energy in a compact form.
2. Glycogen is highly branched, which means it has many free ends from which glucose can be rapidly released by hydrolysis when energy is needed.
3. Glycogen is insoluble / relatively insoluble in water, so it does not affect the osmotic potential of the cell.
4. Glucose monomers are released by hydrolysis of glycosidic bonds and can enter cellular respiration to release ATP, making glycogen an immediately accessible energy reserve.

## Key terms

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

## 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)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-structure-of-glycogen-f0b041f8) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.