What type of sugar is produced by combining glucose and galactose?

The correct answer is lactose, which is a disaccharide sugar formed by the combination of glucose and galactose. Lactose is primarily found in milk and dairy products and is often referred to as milk sugar.

When glucose and galactose join together through a condensation reaction, they form lactose, linking the two monosaccharides via a glycosidic bond. This process is significant in nutrition, as it plays a crucial role in the energy provision in mammalian diets during infancy and beyond, as many mammals utilize lactose for energy throughout their lives.

The other sugar types mentioned do not arise from this combination. Sucrose is a disaccharide made from glucose and fructose, maltose consists of two glucose molecules, and fructose is a simple sugar that stands alone without forming from the combination of other monosaccharides. Understanding these differences is essential for a clear grasp of carbohydrate chemistry and nutrition.