Chemical Formula of Amino Acid

In summary, the chemical formula of amino acid varies depending on the specific amino acid, but all contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. There are 20 standard amino acids that make up proteins, but hundreds of others have been discovered. The chemical formula is significant in determining the properties and functions of each amino acid and the structure and function of proteins. It can be altered through post-translational modification, and is determined through techniques such as NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry.
  • #1
johncena
131
1
what is the chemical formula of amino acid?
 
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  • #2
Which one?

Please read something about them - your textbook or wikipedia article will do.
 
  • #3
Well amino acids are so named because they are primary amines with the carboxy group. They can link together and form peptides, polypeptides, and even proteins if there are enough of them.
 

What is the chemical formula of amino acid?

The chemical formula of amino acid varies depending on the specific amino acid. However, all amino acids contain the elements carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. Some also contain sulfur or phosphorus. The general formula for an amino acid is NH2-CHR-COOH, where R represents the side chain or functional group specific to each amino acid.

How many amino acids are there?

There are 20 standard amino acids that make up proteins in living organisms. These are often referred to as the "building blocks" of proteins. However, scientists have discovered hundreds of other amino acids in nature, some of which are not found in proteins.

What is the significance of the chemical formula of amino acid?

The chemical formula of amino acid is significant because it determines the unique properties and functions of each amino acid. The sequence of amino acids in a protein also determines the structure and function of the protein. This is important in understanding how proteins contribute to various biological processes in living organisms.

Can the chemical formula of amino acid be altered?

Yes, the chemical formula of amino acid can be altered in a process called post-translational modification. This is when chemical groups are added or removed from the amino acid sequence after it has been translated from DNA. These modifications can alter the function and properties of the protein.

How is the chemical formula of amino acid determined?

The chemical formula of amino acid can be determined through various methods such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and X-ray crystallography. These techniques allow scientists to analyze the chemical structure of amino acids and identify the specific elements and bonds present in their formula.

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