Final answer:
Amino acids are crucial biological molecules that feature an amine group (-NH₂) and a carboxylic acid group (-COOH). Alpha-amino acids have both functional groups attached to the same carbon, forming peptides through peptide bonds during protein synthesis. Alanine is an example of an α-amino acid.
Step-by-step explanation:
Amino acids are organic molecules that are the building blocks of proteins, composed of an amine functional group (-NH₂), a carboxylic acid functional group (-COOH), and a unique side chain that is specific to each amino acid. These compounds are essential for life and play a critical role in various biological processes. The alpha (α)-amino acids are a subset of amino acids where both the amine and carboxylic acid groups are attached to the same carbon atom, the α carbon. The compound that qualifies as an amino acid would contain these functional groups.
For instance, alanine is an example of an α-amino acid. When amino acids join to form proteins, they do so by creating peptide bonds through a dehydration synthesis reaction, linking the amine group of one amino acid to the carboxylic acid group of another, releasing water in the process. The ability to link together in chains allows for the formation of polypeptides and ultimately the complex structures of proteins with various functions, including enzymatic and structural roles within cells.