Chapter 24.3, Problem 16LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : The four groups that surround the central carbon atom in an amino acid are to be reviewed.

Concept Introduction : Proteins are made up of substances called amino acids. Proteins and amino acids are the components of life.

Answer to Problem 16LC

The four groups that surround the central carbon atom in an amino acid are amino group, carboxyl group, hydrogen and an R group side chain.

Explanation of Solution

An amino acid is any compound that contains an amino group and a carboxyl group in the same molecule.

It contains an amino group, a carbonyl group, a hydrogen, and an R group side chain.

All these groups are covalently bonded with the central carbon atom.