| Formula / Notation | (C6H10O5)n |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 9005-25-8 |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (polymer) |
| Melting Point | Decomposes |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes |
| Density | ~1.50 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Insoluble in cold water; disperses on heating |
| Appearance | white powder or granules |
| Also Known As | amylum; amylose; amylopectin; corn starch; potato starch; wheat starch |
| Category | Polymers & Plastics |
What is Starch?
Starch is a natural polysaccharide produced by plants as an energy storage molecule. It consists of two components: amylose (a linear polymer of α-1,4-linked glucose, typically 20–30%) and amylopectin (a highly branched polymer with α-1,4 and α-1,6 linkages, typically 70–80%). Starch granules are insoluble in cold water but gelatinise when heated, forming a viscous gel. It is the principal carbohydrate in the human diet and a major industrial raw material.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: amylum
Other Names / Synonyms: amylum; amylose; amylopectin; corn starch; potato starch; wheat starch
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | Decomposes |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes |
| Density | ~1.50 g/cm³ |
| Molecular Weight | Variable (polymer) |
| Solubility | Insoluble in cold water; disperses on heating |
| Appearance | white powder or granules |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Starch is a natural polysaccharide produced by plants as an energy storage molecule. It consists of two components: amylose (a linear polymer of α-1,4-linked glucose, typically 20–30%) and amylopectin (a highly branched polymer with α-1,4 and α-1,6 linkages, typically 70–80%). Starch granules are insoluble in cold water but gelatinise when heated, forming a viscous gel. It is the principal carbohydrate in the human diet and a major industrial raw material.
Human food and animal feed (primary use). Thickener and binder in food products. Paper coating and sizing. Adhesives and glues. Textile finishing agent. Biodegradable packaging. Production of glucose syrups and ethanol.
Non-toxic, GRAS (Generally Recognised As Safe) food ingredient. Starch dust can form explosive suspensions in air. May cause skin and respiratory irritation in industrial powder form. Consult SDS for industrial grade material.
The formula or notation for Starch is: (C6H10O5)n