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Xylose

D-Xylose: C₅H₁₀O₅; aldopentose; MW = 150.13 g/mol
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationD-Xylose: C₅H₁₀O₅; aldopentose; MW = 150.13 g/mol
Also Known AsWood sugar, D-xylose, L-xylose, aldopentose

What is Xylose?

A pentose sugar (five-carbon monosaccharide) with the formula C₅H₁₀O₅, found in wood and other plant materials (xylan). It is used as a low-calorie sweetener for diabetics and in testing intestinal absorption. D-xylose is the naturally occurring form.

Formula & Notation

D-Xylose: C₅H₁₀O₅; aldopentose; MW = 150.13 g/mol

Other Names / Synonyms: Wood sugar, D-xylose, L-xylose, aldopentose

Properties & Characteristics

Xylose (wood sugar) is a five-carbon aldopentose monosaccharide with the formula C₅H₁₀O₅. D-Xylose is the naturally occurring form and is widely found in plant cell walls as part of xylan polysaccharides. It is the main sugar produced by hydrolysis of hemicellulose. Xylose can be reduced to xylitol and fermented by certain microorganisms.

Uses & Applications

Xylose is a feedstock for the production of xylitol, a sugar substitute used in chewing gum and confectionery. Biorefinery processes use xylose from lignocellulosic biomass for bioethanol and biochemical production. D-Xylose absorption tests are used in medicine to assess small intestinal function.

Safety Information

D-Xylose has low acute toxicity and is used in food products. Large doses can cause laxative effects. Xylose-rich plant hydrolysates in industrial settings may produce fermentation gases requiring ventilation.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Xylose
Formula D-Xylose: C₅H₁₀O₅; aldopentose; MW = 150.13 g/mol
Synonyms Wood sugar, D-xylose, L-xylose, aldopentose

Frequently Asked Questions

A pentose sugar (five-carbon monosaccharide) with the formula C₅H₁₀O₅, found in wood and other plant materials (xylan). It is used as a low-calorie sweetener for diabetics and in testing intestinal absorption. D-xylose is the naturally occurring form.

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