Carbohydrates are the most abundant organic compounds in nature. They are composed of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. They have hydrogen: oxygen in the ratio of 2:1.
They are often referred to as ‘saccharides’ (Sugars). They are represented by the general formula
C n (H2O)n
Carbohydrates are hydrates of carbon. Carbohydrates are optically active polyhydroxy aldehydes or polyhydroxy ketones or substances which yield such compounds on hydrolysis.
Examples of carbohydrates are Glucose, Sucrose, Fructose
