Correct option is C
Correct Answer:
(c)
Explanation: Anomers differ in configuration around the anomeric carbon atom, as seen in α-D-glucose and β-D-glucose. Epimers differ in configuration at only one chiral carbon other than the anomeric carbon, such as D-glucose and D-galactose, which differ at C-4. Therefore, pair C represents anomers and pair B represents epimers, making option (c) correct.
Information Booster
· Anomers are a special type of stereoisomers differing at the anomeric carbon.
· α and β forms arise due to cyclization of monosaccharides.
· Epimers differ at exactly one chiral center (excluding the anomeric carbon).
· D-glucose and D-galactose are classic C-4 epimers.
· Recognition of anomers and epimers is essential for understanding carbohydrate chemistry and metabolism.
Additional Knowledge
D-glucose and D-fructose are structural isomers (aldose vs ketose), not anomers or epimers. D-ribose and D-ribulose are also structural isomers differing in functional group position. Hence, these pairs do not satisfy the definitions of anomers or epimers, reinforcing that the correct anomer–epimer combination is C and B.
