Ketose refers to a type of sugar, specifically a monosaccharide, that contains a ketone group. This functional group is characterized by a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom, which distinguishes ketoses from other sugars like aldoses, which have an aldehyde group. Common examples of ketoses include fructose and sorbose. In the context of biochemistry, ketoses play a significant role in various metabolic processes. They can be converted into energy through glycolysis and are important in the synthesis of nucleotides and other biomolecules. Understanding ketoses is essential for studying carbohydrate metabolism and its implications in health and nutrition.