Chapter 21, Problem 3A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The range of molar masses shown by proteins in the body needs to be determined.

Concept introduction: In human body, proteins are very important biochemical compounds. Proteins are important for the main biological reaction of life. Also, their functions are important for every system of the human body.

Answer to Problem 3A

The range of molar masses is from a thousand to a million atomic mass units. Such molar masses consistent with proteins being polymer.

Explanation of Solution

A protein is a biomolecule comprised of amino acid residues joined together by peptide bonds. Proteins in the body display a molar mass that can range from a thousand to a million atomic mass units. This range of molar masses is consistent with proteins as polymers.

Conclusion

Proteins are organic compounds with a high molecular weight formed of oxygen, carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen.