What type of plant starch consists of unbranched glucose chains?

Amylose is a type of plant starch characterized by its unbranched glucose chains. It consists primarily of linear chains of glucose molecules connected by α-1,4 glycosidic bonds. This structural feature contributes to the formation of a helical structure, making it less soluble in water compared to other carbohydrates. In plants, amylose serves as a form of energy storage, primarily found in seeds and tubers.

Unlike amylose, amylopectin, which is another component of starch, contains branched chains with both α-1,4 and α-1,6 glycosidic bonds. This branching allows for more rapid enzyme action and faster glucose release when energy is needed. Glycogen serves a similar function to amylopectin but is primarily found in animal tissues and also exhibits a highly branched structure. Triglycerides, on the other hand, are a type of lipid made up of glycerol and fatty acids and are not classified as starches at all. Hence, the specific characteristic of amylose being unbranched is what distinguishes it as the correct answer.