This model shows nine glucose units joined by alternating
β (beta) 1-4 bonds.
This forms a flat ribbon-like strand which is the basis for the cellulose microfibril.
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Every other glucose unit is effectively the opposite way up, as they are in cellobiose. This can be seen when the
carbon 6 and associated groups are highlighted.
Cellulose forms microfibrils with many such strands running parallel to one another, stabilised by hydrogen bonds which extend sideways between strands, as well as between glucose units within each strand.
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