Glucose is categorized under which type of carbohydrates?

Glucose is classified as a monosaccharide, which is the simplest form of carbohydrates. Monosaccharides are single sugar units that can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream and are used by the body for energy. They serve as the building blocks for more complex carbohydrates.

In contrast, disaccharides are composed of two monosaccharide units linked together; examples include sucrose and lactose. Polysaccharides consist of long chains of monosaccharide units and include starch and glycogen, which store energy. Oligosaccharides are slightly more complex, containing a few (typically 2 to 10) monosaccharides linked together.

The classification of glucose as a monosaccharide highlights its fundamental role in metabolism and its importance as a direct energy source for cells.