Structural similarity via beta-1,4 glycosidic linkages

Steps:

• Identify chitin as a polysaccharide of N-acetylglucosamine units linked by beta-1,4 glycosidic bonds.
• Compare to cellulose, which consists of glucose units with the same beta-1,4 linkages, forming linear chains.
• Contrast with amylose and amylopectin, which use alpha-1,4 (and alpha-1,6 for amylopectin) linkages for helical or branched structures.
• Note glycogen's branched alpha linkages, differing from chitin's linear beta form.

Why C is correct:

• Cellulose and chitin both feature beta-1,4 glycosidic bonds between modified glucose units, enabling similar rigid, fibrous structures as defined in carbohydrate polymer chemistry.

Why the others are wrong:

• A. Amylose uses alpha-1,4 linkages, forming helical coils unlike chitin's linear fibers.
• B. Amylopectin has alpha-1,4 and alpha-1,6 branches, creating compact storage forms.
• D. Glycogen employs branched alpha linkages for rapid glucose release in animals.

Final answer: C