all three sugars have the formula C6H12O6. what does this reduce to

CH2O

Does this give you an idea where the term "carbohydrate" comes from

62

The molecular formula C6H12O6 represents a group of isomers known as hexoses, which includes glucose, fructose, and galactose. Although they all have the same molecular formula, the arrangement of atoms within their structures differs, resulting in distinctive chemical properties and behaviors.

When it comes to reducing the formula C6H12O6, it is important to note that "reducing" usually refers to a chemical reaction involving the gain of electrons by a molecule or atom. However, in this context, it seems that you are asking about reducing a chemical formula to its simplest form.

To determine the simplest form, we need to consider if there are any common factors present in the subscripts of the elements. In this case, the molecular formula C6H12O6 does not have any common factors among its subscripts. Therefore, it cannot be further reduced.

Hence, the formula C6H12O6 does not reduce any further in terms of its elemental composition. It remains as C6H12O6.