Short Answer

Polysaccharides like starch and glycogen mainly function as energy storage molecules in living organisms. Starch stores energy in plants, while glycogen stores energy in animals. These stored forms of energy help organisms survive during times when food is not immediately available.

Starch and glycogen release energy slowly when needed. They help maintain a steady supply of glucose for vital life processes such as respiration, growth, and movement. Without these polysaccharides, organisms would not be able to manage their energy needs efficiently.

Detailed Explanation :

Functions of Polysaccharides Like Starch and Glycogen

Polysaccharides such as starch and glycogen play a very important role in the survival of living organisms. Both are complex carbohydrates made of many glucose units joined together. Their main function is energy storage, but they also support many other life processes. Though starch and glycogen have similar functions, they work in different organisms and in slightly different ways.

Functions of Starch

• Energy storage in plants
  • Starch is the main storage polysaccharide in plants.
  • Plants produce glucose during photosynthesis.
  • Excess glucose is converted into starch.
  • Starch is stored in seeds, roots, stems, and fruits.
• Source of energy for plants
  • When plants need energy, starch is broken down into glucose.
  • This glucose is used in respiration.
  • It provides energy for growth, repair, and development.
  • Germinating seeds use stored starch for early growth.
• Long-term energy reserve
  • Starch is insoluble in water.
  • This makes it suitable for long-term storage.
  • It does not disturb water balance inside plant cells.
  • Plants can store large amounts of starch safely.
• Support during unfavorable conditions
  • During lack of sunlight or water, plants depend on stored starch.
  • It helps plants survive during night or winter.
  • It ensures continuous supply of energy.
• Importance in human diet
  • Humans consume starch-rich foods like rice, wheat, and potatoes.
  • During digestion, starch is broken down into glucose.
  • This glucose provides energy for daily activities.
  • Starch is a major energy source in the human diet.
• Slow and steady energy release
  • Starch takes time to digest.
  • It releases glucose slowly.
  • This helps maintain energy levels for longer time.
  • It prevents sudden rise in blood sugar.

Functions of Glycogen

• Energy storage in animals
  • Glycogen is the storage polysaccharide in animals.
  • It is also called animal starch.
  • Glycogen is mainly stored in liver and muscles.
• Maintenance of blood glucose level
  • Liver glycogen helps maintain blood sugar level.
  • When blood glucose falls, glycogen breaks down into glucose.
  • This glucose is released into the blood.
  • It prevents low blood sugar condition.
• Energy supply during physical activity
  • Muscle glycogen provides energy during exercise.
  • It supplies glucose directly to muscle cells.
  • This helps muscles work efficiently.
  • It supports running, walking, and heavy work.
• Quick energy availability
  • Glycogen can be broken down quickly.
  • It provides fast energy when needed.
  • This is important during stress or emergency.
• Support during fasting
  • During fasting, glycogen provides energy.
  • Liver glycogen supplies glucose to the brain.
  • This helps brain function properly.
  • It protects the body from energy shortage.
• Regulation of metabolism
  • Glycogen plays a role in carbohydrate metabolism.
  • It balances storage and release of glucose.
  • It works with hormones like insulin and glucagon.
  • Proper glycogen function maintains metabolic balance.

Common Functions of Starch and Glycogen

• Efficient energy storage
  • Both store glucose in a compact form.
  • Large amounts of energy can be stored.
  • Storage does not disturb cell activities.
• Prevention of glucose loss
  • Stored glucose is not lost easily.
  • It is saved for future use.
  • This ensures survival during food shortage.
• Support growth and development
  • Energy from starch and glycogen supports growth.
  • It helps in cell division and tissue repair.
  • It is essential during early development stages.
• Role in respiration
  • Both provide glucose for respiration.
  • Respiration releases energy needed for life.
  • Without these polysaccharides, respiration slows down.
• Adaptation and survival
  • Energy storage helps organisms adapt.
  • Plants survive seasonal changes.
  • Animals survive fasting and migration.

Importance of These Functions in Daily Life

• Starch forms the main part of human food.
• Glycogen helps athletes perform better.
• Balanced carbohydrate intake maintains health.
• Deficiency causes weakness and fatigue.
• Excess storage may lead to health problems.

Conclusion

Polysaccharides like starch and glycogen play a crucial role in energy storage and supply. Starch stores energy in plants and provides food energy to humans, while glycogen stores energy in animals and helps maintain blood sugar levels. Both ensure a steady supply of glucose for respiration, growth, and survival. Their functions are essential for maintaining energy balance and supporting life processes in both plants and animals.