Which disaccharide is formed from glucose and galactose, primarily found in milk?

Prepare for the HOSA Biomedical Laboratory Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations to ace your exam!

Lactose is the disaccharide formed from the monosaccharides glucose and galactose. It is primarily found in milk and dairy products, serving as an important source of energy for those who can digest it. The enzyme lactase breaks down lactose into its component sugars, glucose and galactose, which can then be absorbed into the bloodstream.

The structure of lactose is specifically designed to combine these two sugars through a glycosidic bond, which is uniquely suitable for the lactose molecule. This biochemical formation sets lactose apart from other disaccharides. For instance, sucrose is formed from glucose and fructose, maltose consists of two glucose molecules, and fructose is a monosaccharide on its own. Thus, the definition and composition of lactose make it the correct answer in this context.

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