Question

1. you are given an unknown monosaccharide to identify in the lab. the only clue you are given is that it has 4 carbons. you (being an excellent ap bio student) figure out the formula and name immediately. what is the unknown monosaccharide?

Explanation:

Step1: Recall monosaccharide formula rule

Monosaccharides generally have the formula $(CH_2O)_n$.

Step2: Substitute n = 4

Since the monosaccharide has 4 carbons, n = 4. So the formula is $C_4H_8O_4$.

Step3: Identify the monosaccharide

A 4 - carbon monosaccharide is called a tetrose.

Answer:

The formula is $C_4H_8O_4$ and it is a tetrose.