Which sugar is formed by the combination of two glucose molecules?

Maltose is a disaccharide composed of two glucose molecules linked together. It results from the enzymatic breakdown of starch and is commonly found in malted foods and beverages. The bond formed between the two glucose units is a glycosidic bond, specifically an α(1→4) linkage, which creates maltose. This composition is significant because it helps illustrate how different sugars can vary based on their constituent monosaccharides and the bonds that connect them.

On the other hand, sucrose is formed from glucose and fructose, lactose is made up of glucose and galactose, and fructose is a monosaccharide on its own. Understanding these differences highlights the unique properties and functions of each sugar in nutrition and metabolism.