What are amino acids?

Amino acids are the monomers that form peptides and proteins. There are 20 different amino acids that contain an amino group (NH2), carboxyl group (COOH) and R-group. The general formula is: RCH(NH2)COOH.

These 3 groups are all bonded to the same carbon called the alpha-carbon. This carbon is also bonded to a hydrogen. The properties of an amino acid depend on its R-group.

ZC
Answered by Zoe C. Chemistry tutor

3372 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

If you could give your best revision tip for exam preparation what would it be?


Q1. Two beakers, A and B, each contain 100.0 cm^3 of 0.0125 mol/dm^3 nitric acid. Calculate the pH of the solution formed after 50.0 cm^3 of distilled water are added to beaker A. Give your answer to 2 decimal places.


What is the difference between structural isomers and stereoisomers?


Write an equation for the incomplete combustion of dodecane to produce gaseous products only.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning