Which of the following is an example of a simple carbohydrate?

Glucose is classified as a simple carbohydrate because it is a monosaccharide, which is the most basic form of carbohydrates. Monosaccharides like glucose consist of single sugar molecules that are quickly absorbed by the body and provide immediate energy. They do not require further breakdown for digestion and can easily enter the bloodstream.

Other carbohydrates listed, such as starch, sucrose, and cellulose, are more complex. Starch is a polysaccharide made up of many glucose units linked together, making it a complex carbohydrate. Sucrose, commonly known as table sugar, is a disaccharide formed from glucose and fructose, which also qualifies as a more complex sugar compared to monosaccharides. Cellulose, found in plant cell walls, is another polysaccharide that is not digestible by humans but serves as dietary fiber, further emphasizing its complexity in structure. Therefore, glucose stands out as the simplest carbohydrate in the choices provided.