Carbohydrates are organic compounds that serve as a major source of energy. They are classified based on their structure as monosaccharides, disaccharides, or polysaccharides. Common monosaccharides include glucose, fructose, and galactose. Important disaccharides are sucrose, lactose, and maltose. Starch and cellulose are examples of polysaccharides. Carbohydrates can be identified using chemical tests such as Molisch, Fehling's, Benedict's, Barfoed, and iodine tests. These tests identify carbohydrates based on properties such as being reducing or non-reducing sugars.