The basic building blocks of proteins are amino acids. All amino acids are compo

Question

The basic building blocks of proteins are amino acids. All amino acids are composed of a central a-carbon that has an amine group, a carboxylic acid group, and an R group attached to it. There are 20 different amino acids. They all share the same basic structure, with the difference being the R group. All amino acids except glycine are chiral, with the two isomer forms known as the L-isomer and the D-isomer. The L-isomer is the only isomer known to be incorporated into proteins. Select the generic nonpolar amino acid that is in the correct form at pH = 7.0, or at physiological conditions. Pay close attention to the charges on the amino group and the carboxylic acid group.

Explanation / Answer

At physiological pH, most of the amino acids exist as Zwitterions. They are those species whose net charge is zero but have both positive and negative charged species in the same molecule as option 1. Amino acids can remain in such a state and can even crystallize with salt like properties.The carboxylate group becomes negatively charged as it looses a proton and the alpha amino group becomes positively charged as it gains a proton. However, the net charge remains zero which can change when the condition becomes acidic or alkaline with respect to the physiological pH. Hence, the correct answer is option (1).

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