Final answer:
Biologists make sense of the diversity of protein size and shape by studying the unique amino acid composition and sequence of each protein. These studies provide insights into protein function and explain the observed diversity. Protein shape, which is critical to function, is maintained by chemical bonds and can be affected by environmental factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Each protein has its own unique amino acid composition and sequence, resulting in a distinct three-dimensional shape. Biologists have been studying proteins since the 1950s, determining their sequences and conformation to gain insights into their specific functions in the body. By understanding the relationships between protein size, shape, and function, biologists can make sense of the diversity observed in proteins.
For example, proteins can be either globular or fibrous in shape. Hemoglobin is a globular protein, while collagen is a fibrous protein. Protein shape is critical to its function, and it is maintained by various types of chemical bonds. Changes in temperature, pH, or exposure to chemicals can alter protein shape, leading to loss of function.
Overall, the study of protein size and shape helps biologists understand how proteins carry out their specific functions in the body and provides valuable insights into the diversity observed in proteins.