Multiple Choice
Which of the following reactions connects individual monomers together?
2. Chemical Components of Cells
Properties of Macromolecules
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Proteins are most often found in the D form.
A
True
B
False
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of chirality in molecules, which refers to the geometric property where a molecule is not superimposable on its mirror image. This is similar to how left and right hands are mirror images but not identical.
Recognize that amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, can exist in two chiral forms: L (levo) and D (dextro). These forms are enantiomers, meaning they are mirror images of each other.
Learn that in biological systems, proteins are predominantly composed of L-amino acids. This is a fundamental aspect of biochemistry, as the enzymes and cellular machinery are adapted to recognize and utilize L-amino acids.
Consider the implications of using D-amino acids in proteins. While D-amino acids are rare in nature, they can be found in some bacterial cell walls and certain antibiotics, but they are not the standard form in proteins.
Conclude that the statement 'Proteins are most often found in the D form' is false because proteins in living organisms are primarily made from L-amino acids.
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