In semi-dilute solutions, the chains of polysaccharides exert differential resistance or obstruction to the movement of water. The nature of the glycosidic linkages was correlated strongly with the magnitude of the frictional coefficient that describes the dynamic polysaccharide-water interaction. This correlation has been confirmed by analysis of the velocity of sedimentation for polysaccharides having widely varied linkages, and comparison with previous data. The results are discussed in terms of the possible role of the secondary structure of the polysaccharide and its degree of flexibility. Minor influences on the magnitude of the frictional coefficient were manifested by chemical and negative-charge substitution on the chain.