Carbohydrates play several crucial roles in living organisms. They serve as a primary source of energy, with simple sugars being quickly broken down to provide rapid energy. Additionally, complex carbohydrates, such as starch and glycogen, store energy for later use. In plants, carbohydrates like cellulose form vital structural components in cell walls, contributing to plant integrity. Furthermore, carbohydrates are involved in cell signaling and recognition processes, influencing interactions between cells and organisms, thus impacting overall metabolic activities and health.