Amino Acids, Dna And Proteins

Question 1

Amino acid

Answer 1

Simple organic compound containing a carboxyl and an amino group.

Question 2

Why are amino acids optically active

Answer 2

They have a single chiral centre

Question 3

Zwitterion

Answer 3

A molecule or ion having separate positively and negatively charged groups
Neutral overall charge

Question 4

Amphoteric properties of amino acids

Answer 4

Carboxyl group can lose a proton and the amine group is able to accept a proton.

Question 5

Isoelectric point

Answer 5

The pH at which the amino acid does not migrate in an electric field. At neutral pH, the Zwitterion form of the amino acid is dominant.

Question 6

Properties of amino acids

Answer 6

They are ionic and so have high melting points and are soluble in polar solvents.
White solids at room temperature.
In strong acidic conditions, the lone pair of the H2N- group accepts a proton to form a positive ion/become proponated.
The OH- group loses

Question 7

How do you set up electrophoresis ?

Answer 7

Moistened filter paper on a microscope slide with a crocodile clip at each end attached to a battery.
A drop of amino acid solution is placed in the centre of the paper.
Spray with ninhydrin to see position on paper.

Question 8

Expected result of electrophoresis with negative amino acid?

Answer 8

Would travel towards anode

Question 9

Give a use of CH3(CH2)17COO- Na+

Answer 9

Soap

Question 10

Give a use of CH3(CH2)19COOCH3

Answer 10

Biofuel

Question 11

Give a use of [C16H33N(CH3)3]+ Br-

Answer 11

Detergent
Shampoo
Conditioner
Fabric softener