Question

Which of these is a polymer of fructose?
(a) Glucose
(b) Starch
(c) Inulin
(d) Raffinose

Answer 1

It is the polymer of D-fructose in which the monomer units are linked together by $\beta$ (1->2) glycosidic linkage. Inulin occurs naturally in tubers of some plants and is hydrolyzed by inulinase, not alpha-amylase.

Complete Step by Step Answer:
Starch is formed by $\alpha$-1,4 linkages between two glucose units which are broken down during its digestion.
Animal cells will store food in the form of glycogen. It is formed by the linkage of glucose molecules in a linear chain with 1,4 $\alpha$ linkage and $\alpha$ 1,6 side linkage.
Inulin is considered as a homopolymer of fructose. It is typically formed in roots and rhizomes.
Raffinose is a trisaccharide which is made up of 3 saccharides called galactose, glucose, and fructose. The enzyme $\alpha$-galactosidase hydrolyses the raffinose to D-galactose and sucrose. Beans, cabbage, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and asparagus are some important sources of raffinose.
So, the correct answer is, ‘(c) Inulin.’

Additional Information:
Uses and effectiveness of Inulin:
Constipation: Inulin seems to assist relieve constipation in some children, adults, and elderly people. It increases the number of stools by up to about one per week. It also helps to make stools softer.
Diabetes: Short-term use of inulin together with antidiabetic drugs may improve blood glucose levels in some people with diabetes. The benefit of long-term use is unclear.
High levels of fats called triglycerides within the blood (hypertriglyceridemia): Taking inulin seems to lower triglycerides in some, but not all, people with high triglyceride levels.
Obesity: Taking inulin seems to decrease weight a little amount in adults who are overweight or obese. In obese children, inulin decreases the quantity of body fat.

Note: Inulin is indigestible or not absorbed in the stomach. It goes to the bowels where bacteria are able to use it to grow. It supports the growth of a special kind of bacteria that are associated with improving bowel function and general health. Inulin decreases the body's ability to make certain types of fats.