UNIT 2 Carbohydrates Introduction Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for the body. They are organic compounds made up of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O), usually in a 1:2:1 ratio. Carbohydrates are essential for energy production, brain function, and metabolism. Composition of Carbohydrates Introduction Carbohydrates are organic compounds made up of three primary elements: The general formula of carbohydrates is (CHâ‚‚O)n, where n is the number of