Amino acids and amphoteric molecules Flashcards
(2 cards)
1
Q
What does it mean that amino acids are amphoteric
A
They have both acidic (COOH) and basic (NH2) groups and can respond to both acidic and basic conditions
2
Q
How do amino acids respond to acidic vs basic environments
A
In acidic: NH2 group gains h+ -> NH3+
in basic: COOH loses H+ -> COO-
