How does dehydration synthesis differ from catabolism in terms of molecule size?

Dehydration synthesis and catabolism differ in terms of molecule size.

Dehydration synthesis, also known as condensation reaction, is a process that involves the formation of larger molecules by removing water molecules. It occurs when two smaller molecules combine to form a larger molecule, and during this process, a water molecule is released as a byproduct. For example, when two monosaccharides (simple sugars) combine, a glycosidic bond is formed, resulting in the formation of a larger disaccharide molecule, such as sucrose or lactose.

On the other hand, catabolism involves the breakdown of larger molecules into smaller ones. It is the opposite of dehydration synthesis, as it breaks down complex molecules into simpler ones by adding water molecules. This process is commonly observed during digestion and cellular respiration. For instance, the hydrolysis of disaccharides like lactose or sucrose involves the addition of a water molecule, resulting in the formation of two monosaccharides.

Therefore, in terms of molecule size, dehydration synthesis helps in the formation of larger molecules by removing water, whereas catabolism breaks down larger molecules into smaller ones by adding water.

Dehydration synthesis and catabolism differ in terms of molecule size.

Dehydration synthesis, also known as a condensation reaction, is a chemical reaction that combines two smaller molecules to form a larger molecule while releasing a water molecule. In this process, the molecule being formed is typically larger in size than the molecules that are reacting together.

On the other hand, catabolism is a process of breaking down larger molecules into smaller ones. It involves the release of energy by breaking chemical bonds. In catabolism, the molecules that are being broken down are generally larger in size than the resulting molecules.

In summary, dehydration synthesis leads to the formation of larger molecules, while catabolism involves the breakdown of larger molecules into smaller ones.