How do zwitterions behave in different solutions and solid states?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of zwitterions, specifically focusing on alanine, in different solutions and solid states. Participants explore the nature of zwitterions in neutral, acidic, and alkaline environments, as well as their structural characteristics in solid form.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the behavior of zwitterions, specifically how alanine exists in a neutral form and how it interacts with alkali solutions.
  • Another participant clarifies that the -NH3+ group acts as an acid, while -NH2 is a base, referencing the Brønsted-Lowry theory of acids and bases.
  • A participant inquires whether alanine maintains its zwitterion form in solid state or if this form is exclusive to aqueous environments.
  • One participant expresses skepticism about the strict zwitterion form in solid state, suggesting that hydrogen bonding between COOH and NH2 may influence the crystal structure.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether zwitterions strictly exist in solid form, indicating a disagreement on the structural characteristics of alanine in different states.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights uncertainties regarding the exact crystalline structure of alanine and its implications for zwitterion formation in solid state.

crays
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Hi, I'm wondering how zwitterions works? For example, alanine.

NH3+-CH(CH3)-COO-

This is when it is in a neutral form right? But my teacher taught me that, when you add it into a alkali or acid solution. Let's take alkali for instance, the OH- reacts with the NH3+. But by my knowledge, OH- would mean a basic solution and NH3+ is a base. How could a base react with a base?
 
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Thanks for the reply. I'm clear now. So when alanine is in solid form, will it have the zwitterion form? the NH3+ end and COO- end? Or does this only occur in water/acid/alkali ?
 


I doubt it will be strictly zwitterion. However, without knowing exact crystallic structure it can be difficult to predict what is going on in the solid. Seems logical that hydrogen bonding between COOH and NH2 plays some role in the crystal structure.
 

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