5.3. Nomenclature of Monosaccharides

With many ways of classing monosaccharides to specify exactly which form and stereoisomer is being discussed the naming of monosaccharides quickly becomes complex. Fortunately, the naming system is straightforward and consistent for every monosaccharide. Unfortunately, it requires analyzing several different classifications, some of which are time-consuming to determine.

Open form monosaccharides are simple to name. Their naming scheme follows the pattern: [D/L]-[trivial name] (Figure 5.20). Consulting a chart with named monosaccharides (e.g. Figures 5.6 and 5.7) makes the process very straightforward.

Figure 5.20 – Examples of Naming Open Form Monosaccharides.

Cyclic monosaccharides are more challenging to name. Their naming scheme follows the pattern: [α/β]-[D/L]-[trivial name -se][furan/pyran]ose (Figure 5.21). Consulting a chart with named monosaccharides (e.g. Figures 5.6 and 5.7) makes the process simpler but more in-depth analysis is often required.

Figure 5.21 – Examples of Naming Cyclic Form Monosaccharides.

Generally, the naming of cyclized monosaccharides requires significant practice and a combination of different approaches for determining the various parts of the name.