DNA and amino acids Flashcards
(6 cards)
1
Q
what functional group do amino acids have
A
They have both an amino group (NH2) and a carboxylic acid group (COOH) attached to the same carbon atom
2
Q
how do you name amino acids
A
Identify the longest carbon chain that includes the carboxyl carbon.
Start numbering the carbons from the carboxyl carbon, assigning it the number 1.
Specify the position and identity of the amine substituent
3
Q
what is a zwitterion
A
molecules that contain both positive and negative charges within the same structure
4
Q
how do amino acids form zwitterions
A
The NH2 group gains a proton to become positively charged NH3+ and the COOH group loses a proton to become negatively charged COO
5
Q
what affects the pH at which amino acids become zwitterions
A
The R-group (carbon chain)
6
Q
A
