ScienceJuly 13, 2026
monosaccharide
/ˌmɒnəˈsækəˌraɪd/
Definition
The simplest form of sugar, consisting of a single unit that cannot be broken down into smaller sugar molecules, serving as a fundamental building block for larger biological structures.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Greek 'monos' (single) and 'sakcharon' (sugar). It was coined in the 19th century to scientifically classify the most basic carbohydrate units.
In the news
In the article, researchers are investigating how monosaccharides formed on the early Earth, as understanding their origins in space could explain the chemical foundations necessary for the start of life.
The Center of Our Galaxy Is More Like a Raspberry Donut Than We Realized
Read the full article ↗ScienceAlert