What elements make up carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates are organic compounds primarily composed of three elements: carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. The general formula for carbohydrates can often be represented as ( C_n(H_2O)_n ), which indicates that for every carbon atom, there are typically two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom present. This unique composition is responsible for the various functions of carbohydrates in biological systems, including providing energy, serving as structural components in cells, and participating in cellular communication.

The presence of these three elements allows carbohydrates to form simple sugars like glucose and more complex structures like starch and cellulose. These compounds play vital roles in energy storage and supply for living organisms. Understanding the elemental makeup of carbohydrates is fundamental in studying their biochemical processes and their significance in nutrition and metabolism.