Disaccharides are formed through what type of chemical reaction?

Disaccharides are formed through a dehydration reaction, also known as a condensation reaction. This process involves the joining of two monosaccharides, where a water molecule is removed. During this reaction, the hydroxyl group (-OH) from one monosaccharide and a hydrogen atom (H) from the other monosaccharide combine to form water (H2O), which is released, allowing the two sugar units to bond together via a glycosidic linkage.

Understanding the process of dehydration synthesis is crucial, as it is the primary means by which simpler sugars combine to create more complex carbohydrates, such as disaccharides. This type of reaction is not only essential for carbohydrate formation but also plays a significant role in the formation of various biological macromolecules.