Carbohydrates are organic molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, serving as a primary energy source in cells. They exist in various forms, including monosaccharides (glucose, fructose), disaccharides (sucrose, lactose), and polysaccharides (starch, glycogen, cellulose). These biomolecules play essential roles in metabolism, cell structure, and energy storage. Carbohydrate metabolism is crucial for maintaining life processes, making it a fundamental topic in biology.