Biology Proteins Flashcards

Questions and Answers

Amino acids can be distinguished from one another by... (Select all that apply)

The number of R groups found on the amino acid molecules

The chemical properties of their R groups (correct)

The type of bond between the R group and the rest of the amino acid molecule

The chemical properties of their amino and carboxyl groups

Proteins differ from one another because... (Select all that apply)

Each protein contains its own unique sequence of sugar molecules

The peptide bonds linking amino acids differ from protein to protein

The sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain differs from protein to protein (correct)

The number of nucleotides found in each protein varies from molecule to molecule

Peptide bonds...

Form between fatty acids

Link amino acids (correct)

Are used to form amino acids

Are formed by a hydrolysis reaction

Proteins cannot be denatured by...

Freezing Signup and view all the answers

The primary structure of a protein is...

The amino acid sequence of the polypeptide chain Signup and view all the answers

Proteins are responsible for...

Maintaining the structure of cells and tissue Signup and view all the answers

What type of organic molecule is a chain of molecules joined together by two peptide bonds?

Protein Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the region at which reactants bind to an enzyme during a biochemical reaction?

Active site Signup and view all the answers

How are enzymes able to speed up biochemical reactions?

They lower the activation energy of the reaction Signup and view all the answers

Which level of protein structure is indicated by the diagram?

Primary Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Amino Acids

Amino acids are differentiated by the chemical properties of their R groups.
The R groups determine the characteristics and behavior of each amino acid.

Protein Structure

Proteins are unique due to the sequence of amino acids in their polypeptide chains.
Each protein possesses a distinct amino acid sequence, which defines its specific function and structure.

Peptide Bonds

Peptide bonds are crucial for linking amino acids together to form proteins.
These bonds arise through condensation reactions, linking the amino end of one amino acid to the carboxyl end of another.

Protein Denaturation

Proteins can be denatured through heat, pH changes, and chemicals that disrupt hydrogen bonds.
Freezing does not denature proteins, maintaining their structural integrity.

Primary Structure

The primary structure of a protein refers to the linear amino acid sequence of the polypeptide chain.
This sequence is fundamental as it determines the protein’s overall shape and function.

Function of Proteins

Proteins play a key role in maintaining the structure of cells and tissues.
They are not primarily responsible for energy storage or insulating the body, as these functions are generally carried out by carbohydrates and lipids, respectively.

Protein Composition

Chains of amino acids joined by peptide bonds compose proteins, distinguishing them from other organic molecules like nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.

Enzymes and Biochemical Reactions

The active site of an enzyme is the region where substrates bind, facilitating biochemical reactions.
Enzymes accelerate reactions by lowering the activation energy required, making processes more efficient.

Levels of Protein Structure

The primary level of protein structure is indicated by the sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain.
Other levels of protein structure include secondary (alpha helices or beta sheets), tertiary (3D conformation), and quaternary (multiple polypeptide chains), which are not addressed in this set of notes.

Description

Test your knowledge of proteins and amino acids with these flashcards. Each card presents key concepts related to the structure and properties of proteins. Perfect for biology students looking to reinforce their understanding of this essential topic.