Alpha-D-glucose hydrate is a monosaccharide and the most common form of glucose. It cannot be broken down into simpler sugars. It plays a vital role in energy metabolism, serving as the primary energy source for many cells in the body, and is also a building block for larger carbohydrates like starch and glycogen. The "α" prefix indicates the orientation of the hydroxyl group attached to the first carbon atom. Alpha-D-glucose exists in solution as a hydrate, meaning it is bound to water molecules. It is a biochemical reagent that can be used as a biological material or organic compound for life science-related research.
- Molecular weight: 198.17
- Formula: C6H14O7
- Appearance: Solid
- Color: White to off-white