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Multiple Choice
Which two functional groups are bound to the central carbon of every free amino acid monomer?
A
Hydroxyl group and methyl group
B
Carbonyl group and sulfhydryl group
C
Amino group and carboxyl group
D
Phosphate group and ester group
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of an amino acid: Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins. Each amino acid has a central carbon atom, known as the alpha carbon.
Identify the functional groups attached to the alpha carbon: In a free amino acid, the central carbon is bonded to four different groups: an amino group (-NH₂), a carboxyl group (-COOH), a hydrogen atom, and a variable side chain (R group).
Recognize the amino group: The amino group (-NH₂) is a basic functional group that contains nitrogen and is responsible for the basic properties of amino acids.
Recognize the carboxyl group: The carboxyl group (-COOH) is an acidic functional group that contains a carbonyl and a hydroxyl group, contributing to the acidic properties of amino acids.
Conclude that the two functional groups bound to the central carbon of every free amino acid monomer are the amino group and the carboxyl group, which are essential for the formation of peptide bonds in proteins.