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Questions and Answers
Which of the following is the correct definition of a zwitterion?
Which of the following is the correct definition of a zwitterion?
- A molecule that contains only positively-charged functional groups
- A molecule that contains both positively- and negatively-charged functional groups, but not in equal numbers
- A molecule that contains an equal number of positively- and negatively-charged functional groups (correct)
- A molecule that contains only negatively-charged functional groups
What is another name for a zwitterion?
What is another name for a zwitterion?
- Dipolar ion (correct)
- Outer salt
- Neutral ion
- Hydrogen ion
Which of the following cannot isomerize to an all-neutral form?
Which of the following cannot isomerize to an all-neutral form?
- Molecules containing a phosphonium group and a carboxylate group
- Betaines with a positive charge on a quaternary ammonium group (correct)
- Molecules with only positively-charged functional groups
- Amino acids in solution
What is the stoichiometry of tautomerism of amino acids?
What is the stoichiometry of tautomerism of amino acids?
What stabilizes the zwitterion in aqueous solution?
What stabilizes the zwitterion in aqueous solution?
Which of the following is a characteristic of a zwitterion?
Which of the following is a characteristic of a zwitterion?
What is the term for a molecule that cannot isomerize to an all-neutral form?
What is the term for a molecule that cannot isomerize to an all-neutral form?
What is the stoichiometry of tautomerism of amino acids?
What is the stoichiometry of tautomerism of amino acids?
What is the German word for 'hermaphrodite', which is used to describe a zwitterion?
What is the German word for 'hermaphrodite', which is used to describe a zwitterion?
What is the suggested reason for the stabilization of zwitterions in aqueous solution?
What is the suggested reason for the stabilization of zwitterions in aqueous solution?
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Study Notes
Definition and Characteristics of Zwitterions
- A zwitterion is a molecule that contains both positive and negative charges but is overall neutral.
- Zwitterions are also known as dipolar ions, reflecting their dual charge nature.
- A characteristic of zwitterions is that they can exist in a stable form in solution due to their ability to balance charges.
Tautomerism and Isomerization in Amino Acids
- Tautomerism in amino acids typically involves the transfer of a hydrogen atom and results in the formation of isomers that can differ in positioning of functional groups.
- Amino acids exhibit specific stoichiometry in tautomerism, reflecting their structural complexity and equilibrium states.
- Some molecular structures cannot isomerize to an all-neutral form, indicating limitations in their chemical flexibility.
Stability of Zwitterions in Aqueous Solutions
- Zwitterions are stabilized in aqueous solutions primarily due to solvation effects, where water molecules surround and interact with the charges.
- The stabilization is suggested to be a result of both ionic interactions and hydrogen bonding with water, minimizing energy and promoting solubility.
Terminology
- The German word for 'hermaphrodite' is "Zwitter," which emphasizes the dual nature of zwitterions.
- Molecules that cannot isomerize to an all-neutral form lack the structural capability for such transformations, often due to inherent molecular constraints.
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