Most of
them have a general formula, Cx(H2O)y, and were considered as hydrates
of carbon from where the name carbohydrate was derived For example,
the molecular formula of glucose (C6H12O6) fits into this general formula,
C6(H2O)6 But all the compounds which fit into this formula may not be
classified as carbohydrates For example acetic acid (CH3COOH) fits into
this general formula, C2(H2O)2 but is not a carbohydrate