An aldose is a type of simple sugar, or monosaccharide, that contains an aldehyde group. This functional group is characterized by a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and single-bonded to a hydrogen atom. Aldoses are important in biochemistry as they serve as building blocks for more complex carbohydrates, such as disaccharides and polysaccharides. Common examples of aldoses include glucose and galactose. These sugars play crucial roles in energy production and metabolism in living organisms. Aldoses can be found in various foods and are essential for cellular functions, making them vital for life.