Cellulose is a polymer of (a) Glucose (b) Fructose (c) Ribose (d) Sucrose

Understanding glucose polymerization is fundamental when studying cellulose, a primary structural component of plants. Simply put, polymerization is a process where small molecules called monomers join together to form a long, repeating chain known as a polymer. In the case of cellulose, glucose molecules undergo this process.

Now, how does this happen exactly? Well, every glucose molecule has several functional groups that can interact with others. Through a dehydration reaction, wherein a water molecule is removed, two glucose molecules can link up. As this process continues, you get a long chain of glucose units - this is glucose polymerization at work. And it's not just any random chain; it's structured and systematic, giving cellulose its unique and essential qualities for plant structure and rigidity.

Cell walls are the defining feature that separate plant cells from animal cells, providing them with structural support and protection. One of the essential natural polymers present in cell walls is cellulose. It's like the cement in the bricks of a house, ensuring the cell holds its shape and can withstand external pressures.

Aside from cellulose, other natural polymers such as hemicellulose, and pectin also contribute to the integrity of the cell wall. They create a complex, interpenetrating network that manages not only structural support but also plays roles in water transport, defense against pathogens, and more. Many of these polymers have a similar backbone to cellulose, but the cross-linked structure of multiple types of polymers is what makes the cell wall such a robust and versatile structure.

The strength of cellulose lies in the special linkages between the glucose units, known as beta-1,4-glycosidic bonds. Essentially, these bonds form when the hydroxyl (OH) group of one glucose molecule connects with the carbon atom of another glucose molecule. But it's not just any bond; the 'beta' refers to the orientation of the hydroxyl group at the 1 position of glucose, facing upward in the sugar ring, contrasting with 'alpha' orientation where it faces downward.

These beta linkages make cellulose rigid and insoluble in water, because they form straight chains that pack tightly together to create strong fibres - perfect for the demanding structural role in plant cell walls. They're also resistant to being broken down by most organisms, which is why cellulose is so durable in nature and doesn't readily degrade like other substances.