Topic 1A - Biological Molecules

Question 1

What is the primary structure of a protein?

Answer 1

The sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain.

Question 2

What is the secondary structure of a protein?

Answer 2

Hydrogen bonds form between the amino acids in the chain. It automatically coils into an alpha helix or fold into a beta pleated sheet.

Question 3

What is the tertiary structure of a protein?

Answer 3

The coiled or folded chain of amino acids is often coiled and folded further. Hydrogen and ionic bonds form between different parts of the polypeptide chain. Disulfide bridges form between the sulfur atom of one cysteine molecule and another when they come close.

Question 4

What is the quaternary structure of a protein?

Answer 4

Proteins which consist of several polypeptide chains are held together with bonds. quaternary structure determines the way they are assembled.