1.

Carbonyl Position:
o Aldohexoses: The carbonyl group (like a little

tag) is at the end of the carbon chain, forming an

aldehyde.
o Ketohexoses: The carbonyl group is in the

middle of the chain, forming a ketone.

2. Shape:
o Aldohexoses: Aldehydes give them a specific

shape.
o Ketohexoses: Ketones alter their shape.

3. Reactivity:
o Aldohexoses: They react differently due to the

aldehyde group.
o Ketohexoses: Ketones influence their chemical

behavior.
4. Examples:
o Aldohexose: Glucose (a common sugar).

o Ketohexose: Fructose (found in fruits).

5. Biological Roles:
o Aldohexoses: Important for energy and

metabolism.
o Ketohexoses: Also play roles in our bodies.
6. Chirality:
o Aldohexoses: Have four chiral centers, leading

to 16 stereoisomers.
o Ketohexoses: Typically have fewer

stereoisomers.
7. Hydroxyl Groups:
o Aldohexoses: Hydroxyl groups are positioned

differently.
o Ketohexoses: Hydroxyl arrangement varies.

8. Naming Convention:
o Aldohexoses: Labeled as D- or L- based on

hydroxyl position.
o Ketohexoses: Similar naming applies.

9. Natural Occurrence:
o Aldohexoses: Glucose is a common example.

o Ketohexoses: Fructose is abundant in fruits.

10. Enantiomers:
o Aldohexoses: Exist as pairs of optical isomers.

o Ketohexoses: Also have specific enantiomers.