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johncena
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what is the chemical formula of amino acid?
The chemical formula of amino acid varies depending on the specific amino acid. However, all amino acids contain the elements carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. Some also contain sulfur or phosphorus. The general formula for an amino acid is NH2-CHR-COOH, where R represents the side chain or functional group specific to each amino acid.
There are 20 standard amino acids that make up proteins in living organisms. These are often referred to as the "building blocks" of proteins. However, scientists have discovered hundreds of other amino acids in nature, some of which are not found in proteins.
The chemical formula of amino acid is significant because it determines the unique properties and functions of each amino acid. The sequence of amino acids in a protein also determines the structure and function of the protein. This is important in understanding how proteins contribute to various biological processes in living organisms.
Yes, the chemical formula of amino acid can be altered in a process called post-translational modification. This is when chemical groups are added or removed from the amino acid sequence after it has been translated from DNA. These modifications can alter the function and properties of the protein.
The chemical formula of amino acid can be determined through various methods such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and X-ray crystallography. These techniques allow scientists to analyze the chemical structure of amino acids and identify the specific elements and bonds present in their formula.