Comparison of Alpha and Beta Structure of Fructose
Alpha and Beta fructose are two stereoisomers of the sugar fructose, differing in the spatial arrangement of functional groups around a chiral center.
Chirality in Fructose
- Alpha Fructose: In alpha fructose, the hydroxyl group (-OH) at the chiral center (C3) is oriented downward.
- Beta Fructose: In beta fructose, the hydroxyl group at the chiral center (C3) is oriented upward.
Nature of Fructose
- Alpha Fructose: Found naturally in some fruits and foods.
- Beta Fructose: Also found naturally in certain fruits and foods.
What is Fructose?
Fructose is a simple sugar, also called “fruit sugar”. Fructose is a monosaccharide like glucose and is found in all types of fruits hence, the name fruit sugar. Fructose has four calories per gram. Fructose also occurs in various foods such as honey, sugar cane, corn, etc.
In this article, we will learn about Fructose, its structure, preparation, properties, uses, and comparison between glucose and fructose.
Table of Content
- What is Fructose?
- Structure of Fructose
- Properties of Fructose
- Physical Properties of Fructose
- Chemical Properties of Fructose
- Difference between Glucose and Fructose