Question:

Identify glycosidic linkage in lactose.

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Lactose is galactose joined to glucose through a beta-1,4 glycosidic bond.
Updated On: Oct 1, 2026
  • \(α-1,4\)
  • \(β-1,4\)
  • \(α-1,6\)
  • \(β-2,6\)
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Disaccharides are two monosaccharides joined by a glycosidic bond between the anomeric carbon of one unit and a hydroxyl carbon of the other.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Lactose is milk sugar. Its two units are D-galactose and D-glucose.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The anomeric carbon (C1) of beta-D-galactose is linked to C4 of glucose through oxygen. So the linkage is \(\beta\)-1,4.
Because the glucose unit still has a free anomeric hydroxyl, lactose is a reducing sugar.
For comparison, maltose has an \(\alpha\)-1,4 linkage, and sucrose has an \(\alpha\)-1,\(\beta\)-2 linkage.
So option (A), \(\alpha\)-1,4, is maltose, and options (C) and (D) do not describe lactose.

Final Answer:
The glycosidic linkage in lactose is \(\beta\)-1,4, option (B). \[ \boxed{\beta\text{-1,4 (B)}} \]
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