Carbohydrates are primarily composed of which three elements?

Carbohydrates are organic compounds that are primarily composed of three key elements: carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. These elements are arranged in a specific ratio, typically in the form of (CH₂O)n, where "n" is the number of carbon atoms present. This composition is fundamental to the structure of carbohydrates, which include sugars, starches, and fibers.

The presence of carbon allows for a wide variety of carbohydrate structures, while hydrogen and oxygen are typically found in a ratio of 2:1, similar to water, contributing to the hydrophilic nature of many carbohydrates. Understanding this molecular composition helps explain the role of carbohydrates in biological systems, including energy storage and providing structural support in cells.