What type of molecule is fructose?

Fructose is classified as a monosaccharide, which is the simplest form of carbohydrates. Monosaccharides consist of single sugar molecules that cannot be hydrolyzed further into simpler sugars. Fructose, specifically known for being a component of many fruits, has the chemical formula C6H12O6, which accounts for its structure as a six-carbon sugar.

Monosaccharides like fructose can exist in several structural forms, such as linear chains or ring-like structures. They are fundamental building blocks for more complex carbohydrates. In contrast, disaccharides consist of two monosaccharide units linked together, polysaccharides are larger molecules formed by the polymerization of many monosaccharides, and oligosaccharides contain a few monosaccharides, typically between 2 to 10 units.

Understanding these classifications helps clarify that fructose, being a single sugar molecule, fits the definition of a monosaccharide, distinguishing it from other carbohydrate types.