Final answer:
Polypeptides are made up of more than ten amino acids connected by peptide bonds, with chains of about fifty or more typically classified as polypeptides or proteins. The peptide bond formation releases water and is catalyzed by ribosomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Polypeptides contain more than ten amino acids joined by peptide bonds. When amino acids are linked together through dehydration synthesis, a peptide bond is formed, resulting in the release of one water molecule. The process of peptide bond formation is catalyzed by ribosomes. A sequence of amino acids in a peptide or protein is critical for its physiological activity, and the order determines its identity and function.
A polypeptide is generally a sequence of between ten and a few hundred amino acids, and once a chain reaches more than about fifty amino acids, it is usually referred to as a protein or polypeptide. Thus, chains of about 50 amino acids or more are often considered polypeptides, distinguishing them from shorter peptides like dipeptides, tripeptides, and oligopeptides. It's important to note that the terminology can sometimes vary, but the option denoting more than ten amino acids is appropriate for defining a polypeptide.