Selüloza

Selüloza is a naturally occurring organic compound that serves as a primary structural component of plant cell walls. It is a polysaccharide, meaning it is a long chain of sugar molecules linked together. Specifically, selüloza is made up of repeating units of glucose. Its molecular formula is (C6H10O5)n, where 'n' represents a large number of glucose units. This arrangement of glucose molecules creates a strong, linear structure that provides rigidity and support to plants. Selüloza is insoluble in water, which is a crucial property for its structural role.

Humans and many animals are unable to digest selüloza due to the absence of the necessary enzymes to break down the beta-glycosidic bonds linking the glucose units. However, microorganisms like bacteria and fungi possess these enzymes and can metabolize selüloza. This digestive capability is essential in ecosystems for the decomposition of plant matter. Selüloza is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth, found in significant quantities in wood, cotton, paper, and various plant-based fibers. Its applications are diverse, ranging from the production of paper and textiles to its use as a food additive, a thickener, and a raw material in the manufacturing of plastics and biofuels.