Question: what is alpha and beta linkage in the joining of sugars in a carbohydrate?
Answer: The 1,4 glycosidic bond is formed between the carbon-1 of one monosaccharide and carbon-4 of the other monosaccharide. ... 1,4 alpha glycosidic bonds are formed when the OH on the carbon-1 is below the glucose ring; while 1,4 beta glycosidic bonds are formed when the OH is above the plane.