Question

11. Draw the structure of the amino acid, alanine.

   11. Draw the structure of the amino acid, alanine.

NCERT Class 11 - Biology

NCERT Class 11 - Biology

M. Siraj Anwar,…

Chapter 9, Problem 11

Instant Answer

Solved by Expert Asma Venkitta

06/20/2021

Step 1

All amino acids have a central carbon atom, also known as the alpha carbon, to which an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), and a hydrogen atom are attached. Show more…

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11. Draw the structure of the amino acid, alanine.

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Key Concepts

Side Chain (R Group)

The side chain (R group) attached to the ?-carbon varies among different amino acids and determines their individual properties. In alanine, the R group is a methyl group, making it one of the simplest amino acids with relatively hydrophobic characteristics.

Amino Acid Backbone

Amino acids have a common structural framework consisting of a central (?) carbon atom bonded to an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a side chain (R group). This backbone is fundamental in forming proteins through peptide bonds.

Amino Group

The amino group (-NH2) is a basic functional group present in all amino acids. It plays a key role in forming peptide bonds by reacting with the carboxyl group of another amino acid, thereby linking amino acids in a protein chain.

Carboxyl Group

The carboxyl group (-COOH) is an acidic functional group that, along with the amino group, defines the amphoteric nature of amino acids. It is essential for the formation of peptide bonds and contributes to the molecule’s overall charge properties at physiological pH.

Alpha Carbon (Central Carbon)

The ?-carbon is the central carbon atom to which the amino group, carboxyl group, hydrogen, and variable side chain are attached. This atom is pivotal in the stereochemistry of amino acids since it typically becomes a chiral center, influencing the molecule’s three-dimensional structure.

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