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Multiple Choice
Which statement accurately describes how pH is related to protein denaturation?
A
A low pH can lead to protein denaturation by disrupting hydrogen bonds.
B
A high pH stabilizes protein structure by enhancing hydrophobic interactions.
C
pH changes do not affect protein denaturation.
D
Protein denaturation is solely dependent on temperature, not pH.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that protein denaturation involves the unfolding and loss of the protein's native structure, which can be influenced by various factors including pH.
Recognize that proteins are held together by various interactions, including hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and disulfide bridges.
Consider how pH affects these interactions: a low pH (acidic conditions) can lead to protonation of amino acid side chains, disrupting hydrogen bonds and ionic interactions, which can cause denaturation.
Evaluate the statement that a high pH stabilizes protein structure. High pH (basic conditions) can lead to deprotonation, which might disrupt ionic bonds rather than stabilize the structure.
Conclude that pH changes can indeed affect protein denaturation, contrary to the statement that it is solely dependent on temperature. Therefore, the correct statement is that a low pH can lead to protein denaturation by disrupting hydrogen bonds.