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Questions and Answers
What is the primary role of proteins in living organisms?
What is the primary role of proteins in living organisms?
Which statement accurately describes proteins?
Which statement accurately describes proteins?
Who first suggested the name 'proteins' for the important group of organic compounds?
Who first suggested the name 'proteins' for the important group of organic compounds?
What significant finding did G.J. Mulder report in 1839 regarding certain substances?
What significant finding did G.J. Mulder report in 1839 regarding certain substances?
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What does the term 'proteios', which is the origin of the word protein, mean?
What does the term 'proteios', which is the origin of the word protein, mean?
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Study Notes
Proteins: Introduction
- Proteins are the most abundant organic molecules in living systems.
- They are found throughout the cell and account for about 50% of cellular dry weight.
- Proteins are fundamental to life's structure and function.
Historical Context
- In 1839, Dutch chemist G.J. Mulder, studying substances like milk and egg proteins, discovered their coagulability with heat and their nitrogenous nature.
- The term "protein" comes from the Greek word "proteios," meaning "first."
- Swedish chemist Berzelius proposed the name "protein" for this crucial group of organic compounds.
Composition
- Proteins are nitrogenous macromolecules.
- They are composed of multiple amino acids.
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Description
This quiz explores the fundamental concepts of proteins, including their importance in living organisms, their historical background, and their composition. Delve into the role of proteins as essential macromolecules that make up a significant portion of cellular structure and function.