Physical Properties of Fructose
Fructose is a monosaccharide, a simple sugar, and it possesses various physical properties that contribute to its characteristics. Here are some key physical properties of fructose:
- State: Fructose is typically found as a white, crystalline solid. In solution, it forms a clear, colorless liquid.
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water. Forms a clear solution when mixed with water.
- Melting Point: The melting point of fructose is around 103 to 105 degrees Celsius.
- Sweetness: Fructose is sweeter than glucose and sucrose (table sugar).
- Optical Activity: Fructose is optically active due to its chiral center at Carbon 3 (C3). It can exist in two stereoisomeric forms: alpha and beta fructose.
- Crystalline Structure: In its solid state, fructose forms a crystalline structure. The crystalline form is influenced by factors such as temperature and concentration during the crystallization process.
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