Simple carbohydrates, also known as monosaccharides, are small carbohydrate molecules composed of one sugar unit (three to seven carbons atoms). These molecules can be broken down quickly in order to obtain energy. Some examples of simple carbohydrates include glucose, galactose, fructose, etc. On the other hand, complex carbohydrates, also known as polysaccharides, are composed of long chains of monosaccharides which are linked by glycosidic bonds. These molecules may serve as energy storage and as structural components. Some examples of complex carbohydrates include starch, cellulose, glycogen, etc.
