Multiple Choice
The specific amino acid sequence in a protein is its:
a) Primary structure.
b) Secondary structure.
c) Tertiary structure.
d) Quaternary structure.
4. Biomolecules
Proteins
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When a protein is denatured, why does it lose its functionality?
A
Denaturation breaks the covalent bonds that hold the protein in its three-dimensional shape. Without the proper shape, the protein cannot function.
B
Denaturation destroys the primary structure of the protein, and the protein breaks down to monomers.
C
Different amino acids are substituted into the sequence, so the protein's properties change.
D
The protein's pH changes, and the change causes the protein to lose its functionality.
E
Denaturation breaks the intramolecular bonds, such as hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions, that hold the protein in its three-dimensional shape. Without the proper shape, the protein cannot function.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that proteins have a specific three-dimensional shape that is crucial for their function. This shape is maintained by various intramolecular bonds, such as hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds, and van der Waals interactions.
Recognize that denaturation refers to the process where a protein loses its native structure due to external stressors like heat, pH changes, or chemicals.
Identify that during denaturation, the intramolecular bonds that maintain the protein's three-dimensional shape are disrupted, but the primary structure (sequence of amino acids) remains intact.
Acknowledge that the loss of the protein's specific shape results in the loss of its functionality because the shape is essential for the protein's interaction with other molecules.
Conclude that the correct explanation for why a denatured protein loses its functionality is that denaturation breaks the intramolecular bonds, such as hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions, that hold the protein in its three-dimensional shape, rendering it nonfunctional.
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