Carbohydrates are primarily divided into which groups?

Carbohydrates are indeed categorized into three primary groups: monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides.

Monosaccharides, such as glucose and fructose, are the simplest form of carbohydrates consisting of single sugar molecules. They serve as the basic building blocks for more complex carbohydrates.

Disaccharides are formed by the combination of two monosaccharides. Common examples are sucrose (table sugar) and lactose (milk sugar), which provide a source of energy.

Polysaccharides consist of long chains of monosaccharides linked together. They include starch, glycogen, and cellulose, and are essential for energy storage and structural functions in plants and animals.

Grouping all of these categories under carbohydrates reflects their common chemical structure and function. Thus, the comprehensive nature of the correct answer captures the full spectrum of carbohydrate classification, demonstrating that all three groups play significant roles in nutrition and metabolism.