Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Inulin is a soluble storage polysaccharide (fructan) synthesized by many plant species (such as chicory, dahlia, and Jerusalem artichoke) instead of starch.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Inulin is a heterogeneous collection of fructose polymers.
1. It consists of chains of fructose units linked together by \(\beta\)-(2\(\rightarrow\)1) d-fructofuranosyl glycosidic bonds.
2. A single terminal \(\alpha\)-d-glucopyranosyl unit (glucose) is typically found at the starting end of each chain.
Because it consists predominantly of fructose units, inulin is classified biochemically as a polymer of fructose (fructan).
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is 4, which corresponds to Fructose.