Question

The functions of the individual amino acids and their roles in protein structure are related mainly to the chemical properties of their side chains. Amino acids are divided into groups based on the relative polarity of their side chains, which indicates their tendency to react. Which of the following statements is true?a. The most hydrophilic amino acids have no oxygen or nitrogen in their side chains.

b. The most hydrophobic amino acids have side chains that are nonpolar and uncharged at physiological pH.

c. The most hydrophilic amino acids have side chains that are polar but uncharged at physiological pH.

d. The most hydrophobic amino acids have side chains with either a negative or positive charge at physiological pH.

e. The most hydrophobic amino acids have side chains that are polar but uncharged at physiological pH.

Answer 1

The most hydrophobic amino acids have side chains that are nonpolar and uncharged at physiological pH.

This is true because the side chains of the most hydrophobic amino acids are nonpolar and uncharged at physiological pH, making them less likely to interact with water. Additionally, the nonpolar side chains of these amino acids tend to form large, hydrophobic interactions within the fold of the protein structure.

The first four statements are false, as they are characteristics of the most hydrophilic amino acids rather than the most hydrophobic ones.