What is the difference the secondary structure and tertiary structure of a protein?

Secondary Structure
The secondary structure of a protein refers to the basic foldings of a protein the forms of:
1. an alpha helix
2. a beta-pleated sheet
These foldings are determined by hydrogen bonds. These hydrogen bond form between the N-H bond and the C=O bonds of adjacent amino acids. 
Tertairy Structure:
The tertiary structure of a protein refers to more extensive foldings of a protein giving it a more unique shape.
These folding are determined by the interations of R groups with other amino acids and its environment.
These interactions include:
o Disulfide bridges
o Ionic bonds
o Hydrophillic anf hydrophobic interactions
o Extra hydrogen bonds (formed by R groups only)

DA

Related Biology IB answers

All answers ▸

Explain the process of synaptic transmission


Describe the process of DNA transcription


Explain the effect of inhibitors on the activity of enzymes.


Translation occurs in living cells. Explain how translation is carried out, from the initiation stage onwards.