What are amino acids?

Amino acids are the monomers that form peptides and proteins. There are 20 different amino acids that contain an amino group (NH2), carboxyl group (COOH) and R-group. The general formula is: RCH(NH2)COOH.

These 3 groups are all bonded to the same carbon called the alpha-carbon. This carbon is also bonded to a hydrogen. The properties of an amino acid depend on its R-group.

ZC
Answered by Zoe C. Chemistry tutor

3512 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What 2 reagents are required to form NO2+ (state conditions)? Write an equation for this reaction.


Molecules of hydrogen chloride, HCl, and molecules of fluorine, F2, contain the same number of electrons. Hydrogen chloride boils at –85 °C and fluorine boils at –188 °C.Explain why there is a difference in the boiling points of HCl and F2.


How are London forces (Van Der Waals) formed?


Back in 1950s, it was common to have as house cleaning items bleaching solution (containing sodium hypochlorite) and ammonia (used to remove, for example, hair dye stains). However, many people ended up in hospital after using them both, why?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning