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What functional group makes each amino acid different in structure?

a)Carboxyl
b)R
c)Hydroxyl
d)Hydrogen
e)The central carbon
f)Amino

User Shocks
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1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

Each amino acid is differentiated by its side chain, or R group, which is attached to the central alpha carbon and is unique for each amino acid.

Step-by-step explanation:

The functional group that makes each amino acid different in structure is the side chain, or R group.

This R group varies from one amino acid to another, giving each one its unique properties.

While the amino group (NH₂), carboxyl group (COOH), and a hydrogen atom are consistent in all amino acids, it's the R group attached to the central carbon, also known as the alpha (α-) carbon, that distinguishes one amino acid from the next.

User Akotian
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