Amino acids AL ORGANIC

Question 1

Are amino acids acidic, basic or amphoteric, and why?

Answer 1

Amphoteric. Zwitter ion formation results in COO⁻ and NH₃⁺ groups, resulting in both acidic and basic behaviour.

Question 2

Define isoelectric point

Answer 2

The pH at which amino acids exist as zwitter ions.

Question 3

How can zwitterions act as buffer solutions?

Answer 3

If solution pH is greater than the isoelectric point, the zwitterion will turn into a negative ion COO⁻.

If solution pH is less than the isoelectric point, the zwitterion will turn into a positive ion NH₃⁺.

Question 4

Describe electrophoresis

Answer 4

Electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate molecules based on their size and electrical charge.

Question 5

Travel direction in electrophoresis depends on…

Answer 5

…Charge of the amino acid ion.

Question 6

Travel distance in electrophoresis depends on…

Answer 6

…Charge intensity and relative molecular mass.

Question 7

Hydrolysis of proteins gives you…

Answer 7

…Amino acids.