What is the difference between secondary and tertiary protein structure?

Secondary: localised folding within the polypeptide chain that is stabilised by hydrogen bonds. The most common secondary protein structures are alpha helices and beta sheets. Tertiary: this is the final form the protein takes once the different secondary structures have all folded into a 3D structure. This final shape forms and is held together through ionic interaction, disulphide bridges and van de Waals forces. 

Answered by Emma W. Biology tutor

17531 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the use of PCR and how exponential amplification can be achieved.


Describe how animals and plants are adapted to survive in dry conditions such as deserts. For each adaptation explain how this helps them survive. (6 marks)


What is an enzyme?


What is the point of anerobic respiration?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences