Asked in PMC Practice Test 10 (2021) 2021

In acidic medium, amino acids can carry positive charge and act as a/an?

Correct answer: B. Base

  • A. Acid
  • B. Base
  • C. Neutral
  • D. None of these

Explanation

In an acidic medium, amino acids can carry a positive charge by losing a proton (H+) from their amino group (NH2). When the amino group loses a proton, it becomes positively charged (NH3+). This positively charged amino group can act as a base by accepting a proton from the surrounding medium.Amino acids have both an amino group (NH2) and a carboxyl group (COOH) in their structure. Depending on the pH of the surrounding medium, these functional groups can become charged. In an acidic medium, the amino group gains a proton and becomes positively charged, while the carboxyl group remains negatively charged (COO-).Amino acids are amphoteric molecules, meaning they can act as both acids and bases depending on the pH of their environment. In an acidic medium, the amino group's tendency to accept a proton makes the amino acid act as a base.

Written and checked by , contributorLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? [email protected]

About Proteins

Proteins are polymers of amino acids joined by peptide bonds, and their function depends on primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary structure. The topic covers fibrous and globular proteins, enzymes, antibodies, hormones and transport proteins, as well as denaturation by heat or extreme pH.

Practise Biological Molecules

1,790 free Biological Molecules MCQs from Biology, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Biology questions like this

Biology is on 8 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Proteins questions