Definition

A type of sugar that has seven carbon atoms in its structure.

Example

Heptose is important in certain biological processes and can be found in some bacteria.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of heptose?

I think I came across it in a biology class once.

Yeah, it's a type of sugar with seven carbon atoms.

Right! It's interesting how many different sugars there are.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heptose is formed from "hepta-" (from Greek "hepta", meaning seven) and "-ose" (a suffix used in chemistry to denote sugars). The word refers to a sugar molecule that contains seven carbon atoms.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hepta-' meaning seven, and '-ose' indicating a type of sugar. This helps you remember that heptose is a sugar with seven carbon atoms.

Visually Confused Words