Final answer:
The joining of two amino acids to form a peptide bond results in a net loss of one water molecule due to a dehydration synthesis reaction between the carboxyl and amine groups.
Step-by-step explanation:
When two amino acids are joined together to form a peptide bond, there is a net loss of one water molecule. This occurs through a dehydration synthesis reaction where the carboxyl group of one amino acid is linked to the amine group of another amino acid. As a result, a molecule of water is expelled, creating the peptide bond.
The process of forming a peptide bond involves a condensation reaction, also known as dehydration synthesis. During this reaction, a water molecule is eliminated, and the carboxyl group of one amino acid combines with the amino group of another amino acid, forming a peptide bond and releasing water as a byproduct.
The resulting structure is a dipeptide, consisting of two amino acids linked by a peptide bond. As more amino acids join in a linear sequence, a polypeptide chain is formed. When these chains fold and interact with each other, they give rise to the three-dimensional structures of proteins.