Molecules with Which Functional Groups May Form Polymers Via Dehydration

Question

Molecules with which functional groups may form polymers via dehydration reactions?
A) hydroxyl groups
B) carbonyl groups
C) carboxyl groups
D) either carbonyl or carboxyl groups
E) either hydroxyl or carboxyl groups

Accepted Answer

Both hydroxyl and carboxyl groups can form polymers via dehydration reactions. Hydroxyl groups in monosaccharides can form polysaccharides, while carboxyl groups in amino acids can form polypeptides/proteins. Therefore, either hydroxyl or carboxyl groups can form polymers via dehydration reactions.