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Multiple Choice
Which of the following functional groups is present in all amino acids?
A
Aldehyde group
B
Carboxyl group
C
Ketone group
D
Ether group
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of an amino acid: Amino acids are organic compounds that contain both an amino group (-NH₂) and a carboxyl group (-COOH).
Identify the functional groups listed in the problem: Aldehyde group, Carboxyl group, Ketone group, and Ether group.
Recall the definition of each functional group: An aldehyde group contains a carbonyl center (C=O) bonded to a hydrogen atom. A carboxyl group consists of a carbonyl group (C=O) and a hydroxyl group (OH) attached to the same carbon atom. A ketone group has a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two carbon atoms. An ether group consists of an oxygen atom connected to two alkyl or aryl groups.
Determine which functional group is common to all amino acids: Since all amino acids have a carboxyl group (-COOH) as part of their structure, this is the functional group present in all amino acids.
Conclude that the carboxyl group is the correct answer, as it is the functional group found in every amino acid, unlike the other groups listed.