What is the chemical formula for glucose?

The chemical formula for glucose is C₆H₁₂O₆, which reflects its composition of six carbon atoms, twelve hydrogen atoms, and six oxygen atoms. This formula is significant because it denotes a simple sugar, or monosaccharide, that is vital for energy production in living organisms.

Glucose plays a central role in cellular respiration, where it is metabolized to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell. The structure of glucose reveals that it has an aldehyde functional group, classifying it as an aldose sugar. The presence of six carbon atoms allows for the formation of various structural isomers, but the specific arrangement in glucose gives it unique properties that are crucial for biological functions.

In contrast, the other options provided do not accurately represent glucose. For example, C₆H₈O₆ suggests a different number of hydrogen atoms, which would imply a different molecular structure and therefore a different type of sugar or compound entirely. Similarly, C₁₂H₂O₆ and C₆H₁₀O₆ also indicate incorrect combinations of elements that do not correspond to glucose, highlighting the importance of the correct stoichiometry in chemical formulas. Understanding the correct formula helps in